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The future of healthcare is here. It is at our fingertips and being currently being delivered to our community. Community paramedicine is an emerging healthcare delivery model that increases access to primary and emergent medical care. The mission of our program is to revolutionize patient care by connecting individuals to high-quality medical services through an integration of advanced telehealth services and expert community paramedics. This community paramedicine program is committed to enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of healthcare by collaborating with specially trained paramedics who serve as physician extenders. These professionals are equipped to evaluate and treat patients with a level of expertise traditionally reserved for in-hospital care. 

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How does this work?

Our paramedics conduct visits in patient's homes, either as a scheduled or emergent appointment, minimizing the need to always be transported to a local hospital for services. Under physician oversight, the
community paramedics will assess, treat, and screen the patient in their home. If necessary, telehealth
consultations or home visits by the physician will occur. In the event of a medical emergency requiring immediate transport to an emergency department, the paramedics can arrange for an ambulance to arrive at the patient’s home and assist with transportation to the nearest most appropriate hospital.

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What can our CP Team do?

In conjunction with specially trained physicians, community paramedics help develop an individualized, patient centered, care plan. These in home services include the following:
Medical evaluations
Point of care testing
Phlebotomy for diagnostic lab testing
Telehealth consultations
Medication education
Home assessment screenings
Referrals to community services
Collaboration with Phelps Hospital’s Caregiver Center
Facilitating medical appointments

 

Who are these wonderful providers?

Each individual with our team entering your home has extensive training and experience. Every community paramedic is certified by New York State, with years of experience in our 9-1-1 ambulance system. There training includes specialized courses in wellness and nutrition, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disorders, neurologic disorders, palliative and hospice care, geriatric care, and social services. Working as a collaborative team allows for seamless transition of care for hospital to home. 

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The history and future of community paramedicine at OVAC?

OVAC is on the front lines of progressive and proactive thinking with the integration of what we feel is in the best interests of our community and our patients. The idea of this program goes back almost two decades, but at that time, unfortunately it wasn't able to be brought to fruition. With our current leadership, in multiple fields, and with incredible dedication and passion, OVAC brought community paramedicine to reality when the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. We bought vaccinations and testing to our extended community across the County of Westchester. With this boost, we were able to make a great push into an expansive program, streamlining the program into what it currently is. With a multitude of collaborations, we have now brought true at home medical care to the area. Our community members can now receive incredible medical services in the comfort of there own home. We will continue to make strides to enhance this program and look forward to what the future holds. 

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