Agape Community Health Center - Community Paramedic Chronic Care Program
Impact
The bill allocates a nonrecurring sum of $250,000 from the General Revenue Fund specifically for this project during the fiscal year 2022-2023. This appropriation is expected to facilitate training and resources necessary for community paramedics to effectively manage chronic care cases. By doing so, the bill aims to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations, ultimately improving access to healthcare for those most in need and utilizing existing community health structures.
Summary
House Bill 3997 proposes the establishment of the Agape Community Health Center - Community Paramedic Chronic Care Program. This initiative is outlined as an appropriations project aimed at providing specialized healthcare services through community paramedics, especially for individuals suffering from chronic conditions. The measure is intended to enhance the healthcare delivery system by integrating paramedics into chronic care management, promoting better health outcomes and tighter community health resources.
Contention
While the bill received unanimous support during the voting (14 yeas, 0 nays), it may still face challenges regarding the sustainability of funding and the long-term effectiveness of the program. Critics could argue about the prioritization of funds within the healthcare system, suggesting that more robust needs exist that may not be addressed by this targeted approach. However, proponents highlight the pressing need for innovative solutions to address chronic care in underserved populations.
Last_action
The bill was last voted on during a meeting of the House Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee on January 18, 2022.