Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

12-2020

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

First Committee Member

Brandon Grimm

Second Committee Member

David Palm

Third Committee Member

Christine Arcari

Abstract

Non-emergency use of EMS resources can impose a substantial burden on emergency response systems and the communities they serve by reducing the response capacity for time-sensitive and life-threatening situations and through the subsequent diversion of funding that could be used to more effectively address health disparities. National EMS response data suggest that a large proportion of EMS patient encounters are for non-emergent reasons. Despite being a nation-wide issue, inadequate research has been conducted to understand why non-emergency and frequent use occurs and what strategies may be effective in mitigating avoidable use. Community paramedicine (CP), an emerging specialty in EMS that focuses on linking underserved populations with available resources to close gaps in care, may hold the key to reducing inappropriate use while simultaneously improving community health. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to examine existing emergency response date, research, and reports from an array of sources to provide insight into effective strategies for reducing non-emergency use while promoting health with appropriate resources.

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