Resolution Supporting Community Paramedicine for Cost Savings and Enhanced Local Emergency Response

Task Forces: American City County Exchange

Issue Areas: Health

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Summary

This model policy authorizes Community Paramedicine programs that enhance emergency response capabilities and improve coordination of preventive care services. 

Model Resolution

WHEREAS, Local governments across the United States face growing demands on emergency medical services (EMS), healthcare systems, and county budgets; and


WHEREAS, traditional EMS models focus primarily on hospital transport, often resulting in unnecessary ER use and higher costs; and


WHEREAS, Community Paramedicine (also known as Mobile Integrated Healthcare, or MIH) enables trained paramedics and EMTs to deliver in-home or community-based care, conduct follow-ups, and connect patients to primary care resources; and


WHEREAS, numerous studies have shown Community Paramedicine programs reduce 911 calls, emergency room visits, and hospital readmissions—producing measurable taxpayer savings while improving patient outcomes; and


WHEREAS, these programs are particularly valuable in rural and suburban areas, where access to healthcare can be limited, and where local partnerships can yield the greatest impact; and


WHEREAS, local governments should have flexibility to pilot programs with proper medical oversight and accountability—free from unnecessary regulatory barriers.


THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, [This Legislative Body] supports the development and implementation of Community Paramedicine programs as a fiscally responsible solution to improve and diversify healthcare delivery and strengthen emergency response.


BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, State legislatures are encouraged to:

  • (a) Authorize and Support local EMS agencies to develop Community Paramedicine or MIH programs.
  • (b) Promote Local Flexibility for counties and municipalities to innovate based on community needs.
  • (c) Foster Partnerships between EMS, hospitals, and public health entities to improve continuity of care.
  • (d) Establish Sustainable Funding through Medicaid or private insurer reimbursement and cost-sharing models.
  • (e) Measure and Share Results to demonstrate improved outcomes and cost efficiency.

Statement of Purpose. Community Paramedicine empowers local governments to deliver smarter, patient-centered healthcare while reducing costs. As demonstrated in Putnam County, New York, partnerships between local EMS, healthcare systems, and county leadership can reduce strain on hospitals, lower costs for taxpayers, and ensure better care for seniors, veterans, and working families. This policy reflects the principles of fiscal responsibility, free-market innovation, and local control.