Community Paramedic

IHCare+; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

IHCare+ seeks a Community Paramedic to deliver preventive and primary care in the community, working with healthcare and social services to improve access and reduce unnecessary hospital visits. You will perform home visits, screenings, and follow-up care, prioritizing vulnerable populations.

The role emphasizes independent clinical decision-making, EHR use, and strong patient communication, with flexible hours and community-based travel.

Qualifications

• Certified Paramedic in Ohio; Community Paramedicine training preferred.
• 2+ years paramedic experience in community health or EMS.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations.
• Knowledge of chronic disease management and preventive health practices.
• Ability to work independently and make sound clinical decisions in the field.
• Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and mobile health tech.
• Understanding of local health and social services landscape.

Responsibilities

• Patient Assessment & Care: Assess medical, social, and environmental needs in homes or community centers.
• Chronic Disease Management: Monitor and manage chronic conditions to prevent complications.
• Health Education: Educate patients and families on health maintenance and meds.
• Care Coordination: Collaborate with providers, case managers, and social services for care plans.
• Preventive Health Screenings: Screen for hypertension, diabetes, and substance use; provide follow-up.

Skills

Communication skills

Chronic disease management

Field decision making

EHR proficiency

Community health

Paramedic experience

Education

Certified Paramedic in Ohio

Community Paramedicine training

Job description

Job Summary:

The Community Paramedic will provide care and support outside the traditional emergency response role, focusing on preventive and primary care, chronic disease management, and health education within the community. Working collaboratively with healthcare providers, social services, and other community partners, the Community Paramedic will aim to reduce unnecessary hospital visits and enhance access to healthcare, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment & Care: Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' medical, social, and environmental needs in non-emergent settings, including their homes or community centers.
• Chronic Disease Management: Provide ongoing care and monitoring for patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, COPD, and heart disease, to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Health Education: Educate patients and families on health maintenance, medication management, and preventive health measures.
• Care Coordination: Collaborate with healthcare providers, case managers, and social services to develop and follow individualized care plans for patients, ensuring continuity of care and appropriate referrals to medical or social services.
• Preventive Health Screenings: Perform screenings for high-risk conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and substance use, and provide follow-up recommendations.
• Follow-Up Visits: Conduct follow-up visits for patients recently discharged from emergency/inpatient care to help prevent re-admissions by ensuring proper care, medication adherence, and support.
• Health Advocacy: Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, understanding treatment plans, and connecting with community resources.
• Data Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate, confidential records of all patient interactions, treatments provided, and care plans implemented. Prepare regular reports on patient outcomes and community impact.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Certified Paramedic in Ohio
  • Certification or training in Community Paramedicine preferred
• Experience:
  • 2+ years of paramedic experience, preferably in a community health or EMS setting
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse populations
  • Knowledge of chronic disease management and preventive health practices
  • Ability to work independently and make sound clinical decisions in the field
  • Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) and mobile health technology
  • Understanding of the healthcare and social services landscape within the community

Work Conditions:

• Travel Requirements: Travel within the community to patients' homes and various service sites
• Hours: Flexible hours and optional occasional weekends