Kentucky Health News
Saint Joseph Health has launched a Community Paramedicine Program, aimed at reducing hospital readmissions for patients with sepsis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure — conditions most likely to result in rehospitalization. It is the first hospital-based program of its kind in Lexington and one of only a few in Kentucky, according to a news release.
The program is designed to provide social and medical support to post-discharge care by dispatching a licensed paramedic and social worker to visit the patient’s residence. The visit includes an environmental assessment, physical evaluation, medication reconciliation and disease-specific education. It also addresses social and environmental factors that impact health, such as food insecurity, transportation and housing. By tackling these issues, the program reduces preventable hospital returns and strengthens community well-being.
“This program provides a wraparound service to vulnerable patients who need a little extra help in the healing process,” Matt Grimshaw, president of Saint Joseph Health, said in the release.
The hospital-based program began in January as a partnership with the Lexington Fire Department’s Community Paramedicine team, which focuses on assisting frequent 911 callers and people experiencing homelessness. Saint Joseph Health was then approved by the state to operate its hospital-based community paramedicine program, which began on Oct. 1.
“By emphasizing education, trust and compassionate care, Saint Joseph’s Community Paramedicine Program is not only reducing readmissions, it’s redefining what it means to care for patients beyond the hospital walls,” said Grimshaw.
The program works with caregivers at Saint Joseph Hospital to determine the need for at-home visits after discharge, but unlike traditional home health care, Saint Joseph Health offers the program free to its patients and does not bill for services through insurance, according to the release.
Since its launch, the program has already shown measurable progress, says the release. For participating patients, readmissions have dropped — with 96% avoiding rehospitalization within seven days and 84% within 30 days.