Marilu Trainor
Remember the saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?” That time-honored truth is now available to all PebbleCreek, Goodyear, and Surprise residents through a special program sponsored by a grant provided by UnitedHealthcare in partnership with the Goodyear and Surprise Fire Departments.
“Our mission is critical. We are a regional fire department-based emergency medical services prevention program. We use community paramedicine to provide community health resources and assistance on non-emergent care,” said Paul Luizzi, Fire Chief of the Goodyear Fire Department.
The impetus for the Community Paramedicine Consortium West Program started last year when the fire departments noticed that some residents were frequently and repeatedly calling 9-1-1 for non-emergency healthcare and social service issues. After responding to the calls, the firefighters realized those residents still needed help because they had long-term medical needs or weren’t sure whether to go to the emergency room or not.
To date, the program has helped 92 Goodyear and Surprise residents. Because of the program’s success, UnitedHealthcare has continued its sponsorship funding for another year. There are 13 paramedics involved in the combined department program.
The Community Paramedicine Program allows the firefighters to visit residents before they need critical in-home assistance. The community paramedics visit people at home to provide care and identify local resources so they can better manage their health. During the visit, the paramedics will check the resident’s medical, nutritional, and psychological needs. They also inform each patient of medical benefits they may be entitled to and set up available long-term programs and resources.
The Community Paramedicine Program services include home care assessment, health care referrals, home safety inspections, preventative care programs, and community resource referrals.
“Our family takes tremendous pride in our responsibility of helping our community every day,” said Luizzi. “This program helps you stay healthy at home.”
To request service, contact Goodyear Fire Administration, 14455 W. Van Buren St. Goodyear, AZ 85338, call 623-882-7120, or email [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What are the benefits of the program?
A: Program participants are relieved to know someone is on their side. The healthcare system can be confusing, and having an advocate who can educate and connect you to available resources can be very helpful!
Q: How much does this program cost?
A: There is no cost for this program, which is available to Goodyear and Surprise residents only.
Q: Do I need insurance to participate in the program?
A: Insurance is not required to participate in the program.
Q: Will a big fire truck be coming to my house when the paramedics visit?
A: No, a fire truck will not be coming to your home for the visit. They will arrive in a fire department designated SUV.