Effectiveness of a community paramedic-led health assessment and education initiative in a seniors' residence building: the Community Health Assessment Program through Emergency Medical Services (CHAP-EMS).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Seniors living in subsidized housing have lower income, poorer health, and increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases and falls. Seniors also account for more than one third of calls to Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This study examines the effectiveness of the Community Health Assessment Program through EMS (CHAP-EMS) in reducing blood pressure, diabetes risk, and EMS calls.

Methods

Paramedics on modified duty (e.g. injured) conducted weekly, one-on-one drop-in sessions in a common area of one subsidized senior's apartment building in Hamilton, Ontario. Paramedics assessed cardiovascular, diabetes, and fall risk, provided health education, referred participants to local resources, and encouraged participants to return to CHAP-EMS for follow-up. Reports were f

SUBMITTER: Agarwal G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5343405 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature