For example, Arizona’s Mesa Fire and Medical Department has implemented an MIH program that significantly reduces unnecessary 9-1-1 calls and emergency room visits. By deploying paramedics to provide care directly in patients’ homes, the program has improved outcomes for patients with chronic conditions while freeing up resources for true emergencies.
Now, states are beginning to mainstream Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) through grants and legislation. Indiana, for instance, has established an EMS commission to develop legislative and practical frameworks for implementing MIH in its communities. In the fiscal year 2022, Indiana allocated $100,000 in grants to EMS providers across six counties who offer MIH services, helping to support and expand this innovative model of care.
How Fire Departments and Community Partners Can Collaborate for Better Care?
Fire departments share a unique bond with their communities, risking their lives to battle fires while also playing an active role in mobile integrated healthcare and community paramedicine. Cross-trained paramedics and firefighters are among the most qualified professionals to positively influence community health.
While paramedics primarily focus on addressing an individual’s immediate health needs, firefighter-paramedics involved in Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) bring an additional layer of expertise. They not only respond to emergencies but also contribute to preventive care by evaluating environmental factors-such as potential fire hazards, poor living conditions, or other safety risks-they help prevent future emergencies and contribute to a more comprehensive approach to patient care.
Risk Prevention and Fall Reduction
Emergency room visits are often attributed to medical conditions like seizures or irregular heartbeats, but falls remain the leading cause of injury-related ER visits-many of which are preventable. Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) programs, led by fire departments, prioritize fall risk assessments as a key element of preventive care.
Through collaboration with community partners, firefighters can take proactive steps to reduce fall risks in patients’ homes. This might involve installing safety features like railing ramps, securing loose rugs, or addressing uneven thresholds. For example, fire departments across the USA can conduct safety walkthroughs during their assessments, working hand-in-hand with local agencies to ensure that patients’ living environments are safe. This partnership not only reduces the risk of falls but also enhances the overall well-being of patients, helping them feel more secure and supported at home.
Child and Maternal Safety
Fire departments are also instrumental in supporting at-risk mothers, especially in areas lacking access to regular healthcare. An example of this is the Crawfordsville Fire Department in Indiana has initiated ‘Project Swaddle,’ a program that provides vital support to new parents by monitoring infant health and offering guidance.
Integrating with Primary Care
Many communities have established referral programs that connect emergency rooms and primary care centers with fire departments. Through these programs, patients who need ongoing community care are enrolled in the fire department’s MIH/CP program. This integration supports primary care efforts and benefits both the fire department and the hospital by reducing frequent emergency calls and decreasing hospital readmission rates.
Benefits of Mobile Integrated Healthcare for Fire Departments
Fire departments often face the challenge of being stretched thin, raising questions about the feasibility of implementing a Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) and Community Paramedicine (CP) program. The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has created a handbook to help fire departments evaluate the feasibility of such programs.
Here are some key benefits of a community paramedic program.
- Reducing Call Volume: MIH programs target super-utilizers who frequently use emergency services. By addressing their needs proactively, fire departments can see a decrease in high-frequency calls and low-acuity incidents, thereby reducing overall stress.
- Proactive Approach: MIH-CP programs shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. This shift helps EMS and fire personnel manage patient care more effectively and reduces the stress of feeling powerless in common patient scenarios.
- Lowering Hospital Readmissions: Reducing hospital readmissions primarily benefits hospitals but also impacts fire departments. Fewer hospital admissions mean fewer ambulance transfers and more availability for 9-1-1 calls, enhancing emergency response efficiency.
Implementing Best Practices: Strategies for Successful MIH Program Deployment
Launching a Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program within a fire department requires a structured approach. Here’s a guide to help you through the deployment process.
Perform a Needs Assessment
Before initiating an MIH/CP program, assess your community’s needs to ensure the program addresses relevant issues. Consider these key questions.
- Do residents lack access to primary care services?
- Is there a prevalent issue with untreated substance abuse or mental health concerns?
- Are there frequent users of emergency services who could benefit from preventative care?
- Are emergency rooms overcrowded, with limited alternatives for patient care?
A thorough needs assessment will provide a solid foundation for justifying the program and gaining support from local stakeholders.
Contact Community Partners
Strong partnerships are essential for the success of an MIH/CP program. Identify and engage with potential partners who can support and advocate for the program.
- Primary Care Providers: Collaborate with primary care physicians and nurse associations to integrate MIH/CP services into existing care frameworks.
- Medical Direction: Work with EMS medical directors to develop protocols and ensure paramedic training aligns with program goals.
- Mental Health and Social Services: Partner with community mental health leaders and social service organizations to address broader health and social needs.
Building these relationships is crucial for gaining buy-in and creating a cohesive program.
Discuss with Fire Department Staff
Engage with your fire department personnel to gauge their interest and capacity to support the MIH/CP program. Consider whether existing staff are willing to take on additional responsibilities or if EMTs, with further training, can be integrated into the program. Ensure staff are motivated and prepared for the new roles to ensure smooth implementation.
Contact Your State EMS Department
Consult with your state EMS department to understand regulatory requirements and guidelines specific to MIH/CP programs.
- Licensing Requirements: Determine if new licenses or certifications are required for the program.
- Educational Requirements: Find out if additional training or certification is necessary for community paramedics.
- Operational Guidelines: Seek guidance on the procedural steps and compliance measures to establish and run the program effectively.
Navigating these regulations is crucial for ensuring your program operates within legal parameters.
Assess Educational Needs
Define the scope of services your community paramedics will provide and ensure your staff is adequately trained. Work with partners to identify specific skills and training required. Explore educational resources such as community colleges, EMS training programs, or specialized courses for paramedics. Ensure that all staff members meet the required standards and are prepared for their new roles.
Evaluate Staffing and Equipment Needs
Identify the staffing and equipment necessary for a successful MIH/CP program.
- Staffing: Start with a pilot phase or part-time roles if resources are limited. Consider recruiting from local educational institutions to fill gaps.
- Equipment: Assess needs for vehicles (e.g., non-ambulance options for home visits), medical tools (e.g., assessment devices, digital stethoscopes), and communication equipment (e.g., laptops with cellular Wi-Fi for telemedicine).
Proper staffing and equipment are essential for the program’s effectiveness and efficiency.
Secure Funding
Develop a strategy to secure sustainable funding for your MIH/CP program.
- Insurance: Research reimbursement options and insurance coverage for MIH/CP services.
- Grants: Apply for grants to support initial program costs and demonstrate the program’s value.
- Community Partnerships: Seek financial support from local hospitals, police departments, and other community organizations.
Effective funding strategies will help ensure the program’s long-term viability and impact.
Following the above strategies, your fire department can successfully deploy an MIH/CP program that enhances community health and optimizes emergency response resources.
How Mobile Integrated Health(MIH) in EPR Fireworks Can Help?
The Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) module in EPR Fireworks is designed to assist paramedics and community paramedics in managing chronic diseases and delivering home-based education to prevent hospital admissions and readmissions. It offers a robust client management system where users can view and filter clients based on visit dates, conditions, or types, such as congestive heart failure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or overdose.
The module provides detailed client records, including personal details, visit history, medications, and activities, and supports the saving and managing of documentation and attachments. Additionally, it allows for efficient scheduling and tracking of visits, and custom filters help streamline client management by prioritizing care based on specific needs. Including comprehensive contact management ensures effective care coordination through key contacts such as family members or caregivers. Overall, EPR Fireworks’ MIH module enhances the management of chronic conditions and improves patient outcomes through proactive and organized home-based care.
To get started or have this module activate, please reach out to us for more information.
