Job Summary: The Community Paramedic on the Post Overdose Response Team consists of initial response and follow-up care to individuals who have experienced an opioid overdose. This role involves working closely with healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations to ensure comprehensive care and support for patients and their families.

Work is performed under the general direction of the Emergency Services Director with considerable leeway to exercise independent judgment within the framework of applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures in the performance of duties, both in terms of planning and accomplishing work, and in making decisions regarding client needs and requests and conducting project assignments. Supervision over others is not required of this position. Position does related work as required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Initial Response: Assists with conducting daily surveillance to ensure all eligible patients are offered services within 24-72 hours of applicable incident. Distribute harm reduction supplies, including naloxone kits and educational materials. Engages with eligible patients to establish to determine desire and eligibility for MOUD bridge program, harm-reduction resources and connection with internal and external resources to address social determinants of health.

• Follow-Up Care: Conduct follow-up visits to ensure patients are connected to appropriate healthcare services, including addiction treatment and mental health support. Ensure seamless transitions from emergency response to long-term care by connecting patients with addiction treatment, mental health services, and primary care providers.

• Education and Outreach: Educate patients, families, and the community about overdose prevention, harm reduction strategies, safe injection practices and available resources. Participates in training for all EMS staff to ensure all potential referrals are captured and staff are educated in services. Participate in community outreach events to raise awareness about overdose prevention and available resources.

• Collaboration: Work with local healthcare providers, social services, law enforcement, and community organizations to coordinate care and support for patients. Contributes to the development and growth of the PORT program with other community stakeholders.

• Data Collection: Maintain accurate records of patient interactions and outcomes to help improve program effectiveness and inform public health strategies. Assists in review of outcome data to ensure there are no existing gaps in program functions. Collect and analyze data on overdose incidents and patient outcomes to identify trends and inform public health strategies.

• Advocacy: Advocate for patients’ needs within the healthcare system and the community, ensuring they receive comprehensive and compassionate care. Ensure all interactions with patients and their families are non-judgmental and conducted with empathy, respect, and understanding.

  Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Current North Carolina Paramedic Certification with additional training in community paramedicine or a related field preferred.

• Experience Three years of work experience as a field Paramedic or an Alternate Practice Paramedic.

• Certifications: Documentation of current BLS, ACLS, PALS. Must obtain Crisis Intervention Team Certification within one year of hire. Must pass Worksteps physical assessment program on initial hire and maintain compliance annually