By Doyal D'angelo Bolin
For the second year in a row, the Arivaca Paramedicine Program–a partnership between Arivaca Human Resource, a local nonprofit providing services like home food delivery and utility assistance, and the Arivaca Fire District–has received grant funding from The Burton Family Foundation.
Set in the heart of Arivaca, Arizona, this groundbreaking initiative has been transforming community health since 2015. Arivaca is located in a remote area about an hour south of Tucson and approximately 25 miles north of the the United States-Mexico border. The Arivaca Paramedicine Program was designed to address the complex healthcare needs of local residents. Over the past nine years, the program has evolved into a vital lifeline for many, providing essential medical care, education, and support at home.
The program was created to tackle the underlying issues faced by individuals who frequently utilize 911 services. By identifying and addressing the root causes of these calls—such as medication management, understanding of chronic disease, and social isolation—the program has become a model of effective healthcare delivery. Fire Chief Tangye Beckham emphasizes the program's focus: “We aim to understand why someone is calling 911 repeatedly and intervene before it escalates into a health crisis.”
For instance, a recent case involving a patient with a chronic urinary tract infection (UTI) highlights the program's impact. The individual had been calling 911 frequently due to complications related to an indwelling catheter. Rather than transporting the patient to the nearest emergency department–over an hour away–the paramedicine team conducted a urinalysis on-site, collaborated with the patient’s primary care doctor, and arranged for a prescription to be delivered directly to their home. This approach not only kept the patient out of the hospital, which would require the patient to pay high deductibles, but also provided them with immediate and effective care. The average monthly per patient cost of care in the program is $213, whereas hospitalizations often cost thousands of dollars.
Holistic Patient Care and Advocacy
The Arivaca Paramedicine Program is not just about emergency response; it’s about holistic patient care. The program offers a six-week intervention plan that adapts to individual needs. Patients set both short-term and long-term goals, allowing for a tailored approach to a patient’s health. For example, a diabetic patient with a high A1C level received education on
diet and exercise, resulting in significant improvement. “When we see a patient’s A1C drop from 10 to 7, that’s a success,” Chief Beckham notes, highlighting the program’s focus on achievable health outcomes.
Many patients appreciate the continuity of care they receive, often preferring to remain engaged in the program even after reaching their goals. The one-on-one support fosters a sense of community and trust, making patients more likely to reach out for help when needed.
Much of the connection comes from patient advocacy. Many individuals struggle to understand medical jargon and discharge instructions, leading to confusion about their health conditions. The community paramedicine team takes time to explain medical information in accessible language, ensuring patients comprehend their care plans. “We don’t just dumb it down; we translate medical language into terms that people can understand,” Beckham explains.
This educational approach extends beyond hospital discharge. During emergency calls, paramedics frequently encounter patients unaware of their medications or health conditions. This presents an opportunity for education and empowerment, as they provide patients with information about their treatments and encourage proactive management of their health.
Simply put, the program thrives on community relationships. Many residents are hesitant to seek hospital care due to past negative experiences. In such a case, knowing they have a reliable resource in the paramedicine program encourages them to reach out for assistance. “People in Arivaca know they can call us when something isn’t right, rather than waiting until it becomes an emergency,” Chief Beckham emphasizes.
The program also facilitates referrals, allowing neighbors and community members to recommend others who might benefit from the service. This creates a supportive network that fosters trust and encourages participation in health management.
Addressing Broader Needs
Beyond immediate health concerns, the Arivaca Paramedicine Program recognizes that many patients require additional support services. By conducting comprehensive assessments, the program can identify needs for home health care or other community resources. This holistic approach ensures that individuals receive the right care in their homes, improving their overall quality of life.
The program is particularly vital for older adults, helping them to age in place. This includes
discussing advanced directives and planning for emergencies, such as caregiver illness. The team also assists with practical concerns, such as pet care during hospital visits, which can be a significant barrier for many individuals seeking treatment.
Another essential aspect of the program is home safety assessments. These assessments help identify potential hazards in patients’ homes, such as unsafe stairs or inadequate lighting. By connecting residents with local contractors and resources, the program ensures that necessary modifications can be made, enhancing safety and independence.
Beckham explains, “It’s about creating a team within the community. We know the skilled tradespeople, and we work together to improve living conditions for our residents.”
The Arivaca Paramedicine Program is a shining example of how community health initiatives can adapt to local needs. It provides essential medical care, education, and support while fostering connections among residents. By focusing on the whole person rather than just their immediate health issues, the program improves the quality of life for many in the community - patients feel valued.
As the program continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being, ensuring that every resident has access to the care and support they need. “Living in a rural area presents unique challenges, but with the right resources and community connections, we can make a profound impact on people’s lives,” Beckham said.
In Arivaca, the commitment to community health through the paramedicine program is not just a service; it’s a promise of care, connection, and a brighter future for all its residents.
To learn more about Arivaca Human Resource, please visit https://www.arivacahr.com.