Aspirus and Local Community Partners Collaborate to Help Address Homelessness
August 5 is Health Care for People Experiencing Homelessness Day
8/5/2024
Dr. Michael Clark, Aspirus MedEvac EMS Medical Director
Aspirus has
partnered with several community partners including the Wausau Fire Department
(WFD) to help launch the innovative Community Care Paramedic program, aiming to
provide comprehensive care and resources to the community and the homeless
population.
This program will
play a vital role in helping address the unique needs of the community through
proactive and patient-centered care, particularly those struggling with
substance abuse and mental health issues.
"We wanted to
help our community and health care systems by providing care where it's needed
most," said Jeremy Kopp, Wausau Fire Chief. "Our goal is to ensure
everyone in our community is taken care of, whether they have a home or not."
August 5 is HealthCare for People Experiencing Homelessness Day. According to the National Health
Care for the Homeless Council, people who experience homelessness endure higher
rates of chronic and acute disease, behavioral health conditions, and other
disparities that make them vulnerable to poor health, disability, and early
death.
"By offering
targeted support, we can reduce the strain on emergency services and provide
better outcomes for these individuals," added Michael Clark, MD, MPH,
Aspirus MedEvac EMS Medical Director.
The Community Care
Paramedic will connect the homeless with essential resources throughout the
county and city, helping them secure housing, manage their health, and improve
their quality of life.
“This program sets
quarterly goals, maintains monthly stakeholder meetings, and continuously
strives to improve its impact. By keeping our goals achievable, we can make a
significant impact on our community," Kopp emphasized.
The Community
Paramedic Position is expected to start within the next month with significant
funding in the first three years from the Aspirus Health Foundation.
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