HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-03-20 Letter to Dr. Virginia Pressler re Letter of Support for Community Paramedicine Program Wil Okabe
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25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo,Hawai`i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Me Keohokalole Hwy.,Bldg.C • Kailua-Kona,Hawaii 96740
(808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440
March 20, 2017
Dr. Virginia Pressler, Director
Department of Health
State of Hawaii
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Dear. Dr. Pressler,
RE: Letter of Support
EMS Contract Modification for Community Paramedicine Program
Our County is in a healthcare crisis. We have a shortage of physicians and our emergency
services are overused. Our Fire Department's pilot Community Paramedicine program is an
innovative proactive piece of the solution. It reaches the underserved before their situation becomes
critical, as well as the chronic overusers of the emergency system.
The program has been able to show a very high value at a low cost in a short period of
time. The measurable value of health care dollars saved is certainly compelling, however more
importantly HFD's community paramedics have been critical in connecting vulnerable individuals with
health care support services that has dramatically improved their quality of life. The value of this
improved life quality is immeasurable and the County of Hawaii is hopeful that the State of Hawaii will
support the Hawaii Fire Department's request for a contract modification so that this program can
work together with the State of Hawaii Department of Health to further improve the quality of life of the
residents throughout the County of Hawaii and serve as a model for the State of Hawaii.
We are confident that HFD's Community Paramedicine program will help to improve the health
and wellness of our residents and visitors, improve outcomes and quality of life in our community
along with preserving resources of emergency services. The program needs and deserves a
sustainable funding source.
Yo ruly
Harry Kim, ayor
c: Hawai'i County Fire Department
County of Hawai`i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.