HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-03-23 Letter to Dr Virginia Pressler re Letter of Support EMS Contract Modification for Community Paramedicine Program Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Harry Kim
^~.'~ ' Barbara J.Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
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March 23, 2017
Dr. Virginia Pressler, Director
Department of Health
State mfHaxvai'i
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
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.
Vo str |y,
HarryKimn, yor
cc: Hawai'i County Fire Department
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer