DEPARTMENT: SAFD
DEPARTMENT HEAD: CHARLES N. HOOD
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: CITYWIDE
SUBJECT:
Update on the SAFD Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Pilot Program
SUMMARY:
Update on the SAFD Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Pilot Program
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Historically, our 911 service is a catch-all for those who are unable to properly navigate their way to scheduled healthcare. The current EMS structure provides only emergency transport for all patients with healthcare needs regardless of acuity. This process provides acute treatment, but lacks continuity for non-emergent conditions and is higher in cost than primary care. The National Association of EMTs defines Mobile Integrated Healthcare as "The provision of healthcare using patient-centered mobile resources in the out-of-hospital environment that are integrated with the entire spectrum of healthcare and social service resources available in the local community."
On October 1, 2014, the San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) implemented the Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Program focused on patients with high volume use of our 911 system. The MIH program represents one of the most innovative, progressive evolutions in the delivery of community-based healthcare. SAFD Paramedics have been functioning within their current scope of practice in an expanded role through the use of non-emergent resources in the pre-hospital setting. Their focus has been providing medical assessment and preventive healthcare education tailored to the needs of the individual, as well as navigating them through our community medical and social resources.
ISSUE:
Since the inception of the program, SAFD MIH paramedics have made over 2,072 patient contacts with over 115 participants. Currently the MIH program has 49 participants and has maintained a 57% reduction in calls for the SAFD. 2,072 patient contacts constitutes over 6,500 hours working directly with patients which t...
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