Community Paramedic

Cherokee Co; Murphy (NC); On-site; USD 41,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Cherokee County is seeking an experienced EMT-Paramedic to deliver advanced EMS care in field and home settings, following standing orders and physician directions.

The role emphasizes community paramedic scope, patient assessment, and coordination with hospitals and social services to connect patients with resources while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• North Carolina Paramedic certification or eligibility, with active Community Paramedic credentials preferred.
• Current certifications for EMS, CPR, ACLS, PALS and related requirements must be maintained.

Responsibilities

• Provide emergency and non-emergency medical care in the field, homes, and community settings.
• Coordinate with physicians and community resources to improve access to care and reduce unnecessary ER visits.
• Maintain accurate patient care documentation and confidentiality.

Skills

Emergency medical procedures

Community Paramedic principles

Patient assessment

Documentation and confidentiality

Communication with care team

Clinical judgment under protocols

Ability to work independently

Education

High school diploma or GED

Paramedic certification

Job description

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INTERNAL & EXTERNALRECRUITMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: EMT-Paramedic

Grade: 69
Pay: $48,339.00

Status: Full time with benefits
Posting Dates: until filled

Description: Performs advanced-level skilled and technical work providing emergency and non-emergency medical care to ill and injured patients in the field, in the patient's home, and during community-based health care encounters. Provides specifically authorized primary and preventive health care services to vulnerable populations under the direction and order of a physician or other authorized treating provider and within the Community Paramedic's legal scope of practice. Supports improved access to health care, continuity of care, prevention of unnecessary emergency department visits, and connection of patients to appropriate medical and community resources.

Desirable Education and Experience

• Graduation from high school (or G.E.D.) and demonstrated ability to provide EMS services at the Paramedic level, with experience providing emergency medical services and patient care; or any equivalent combination of education, training, certification, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Experience working with medically complex, chronically ill, elderly, underserved, or otherwise vulnerable populations is desirable.
• Experience working with hospitals, primary care providers, public health agencies, social service organizations, or other community health partners is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of emergency medical procedures, techniques, and Advanced Life Support protocols.
• Considerable knowledge of Community Paramedic principles, practices, procedures, and scope of practice.
• Knowledge of patient assessment techniques and the recognition of acute and chronic medical conditions.
• Knowledge of medications, medical equipment, supplies, and their appropriate use.
• Knowledge of chronic disease management, preventive care, health education, and care coordination principles.
• Knowledge of community health resources, social service agencies, and available support programs.
• Knowledge of the geography, streets, roads, health care facilities, and community resources within the County.
• Knowledge of documentation requirements, patient confidentiality, and applicable medical and legal requirements.
• Skill in recognizing trauma, acute illness, changes in patient condition, and signs of medical emergencies.
• Skill in communicating effectively with patients, caregivers, physicians, health care providers, and community partners.
• Ability to perform medical procedures and techniques in accordance with applicable protocols, standing orders, provider orders, and scope of practice.
• Ability to conduct patient assessments in a variety of environments, including private residences.
• Ability to exercise sound clinical judgment and recognize when a patient requires emergency medical care or transportation.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining communication with medical direction and the appropriate treating provider.
• Ability to establish rapport and maintain professional relationships with patients and caregivers from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to identify barriers to health care and connect patients with appropriate community resources.
• Ability to maintain accurate, complete, and timely patient care documentation.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information.
• Ability to respond quickly and calmly to stressful and potentially unpredictable situations.
• Ability to work effectively with physicians, nurses, EMS personnel, social service agencies, public safety personnel, and other community partners.
• Ability to drive safely in adverse conditions and in accordance with motor vehicle laws.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with the public.
• Ability to deal effectively with stressful, sensitive, and emotionally challenging situations.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary team.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver's license.
• Certification by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services as a Paramedic.
• Possession of all certifications and qualifications required for the Paramedic level of practice. All required certifications shall be current and shall remain current throughout employment.
• Possession of a current Community Paramedic certification/credential recognized by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services or other applicable regulatory authority.
• Employees hired into the Community Paramedic position who do not currently possess Community Paramedic certification must be actively working toward obtaining the required Community Paramedic certification and shall obtain such certification within six (6) months of appointment, unless an extension is approved by the department and permitted by applicable requirements.
• Must successfully complete all required Community Paramedic education, clinical training, competency evaluations, and credentialing requirements.
• Must maintain all required EMS, Community Paramedic, CPR, ACLS, PALS, and other certifications as required by the department, medical director, North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services, or applicable law.
• Must practice within the legal scope of practice for a North Carolina Paramedic and Community Paramedic and comply with all applicable laws, rules, medical direction, protocols, standing orders, and provider-specific orders.
• Must comply with department policies and procedures regarding physician-directed Community Paramedic home visits, patient care, documentation, confidentiality, quality assurance, and communication with ordering providers.
• Must successfully complete any background checks, driving record checks, physical examinations, drug screening, and other employment requirements established by the County.

Employment

Cherokee County is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, gender, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status and/or national origin. Individuals being offered employment through Cherokee County are subject to mandatory drug screening and a background check.