Engaging Community Partners

Overview

In the traditional EMS system, patients in rural settings often are transported long distances to health care facilities that are not closely affiliated with local health care resources. In some cases, this is appropriate due to the requirement for sophisticated tertiary care for some emergency patients, particularly for severely injured trauma patients. However, far too often this long distance transportation simply reflects the traditional separation of the EMS service from local primary care providers, public health and social services agencies that might be able to deal effectively with the needs of the patient. In addition, the ability to provide integrated health services is often impeded by the geographic and organizational separation of health system components and the lack of regular communication and networking between them. This section focuses on how to improve rural EMS links with the public, the public safety sector (dispatch, law enforcement, and fire services) and become more integrated and part of the local community continuum of heath care.

Public Relations & Education

Public Awareness of EMS Agency

Prevention Programs

Injury Prevention
Community Health Education

Integration with Local Community Organizations

Public Health
Schools