City Council tonight approved an agreement that will expand the Rockford Fire Department’s mobile integrated health program, could reduce congestion in area emergency rooms and decrease the number non-emergency ambulance rides.
Chief Derek Bergsten said under the program, Rockford firefighter paramedics will provide what is sometimes called “paramedicine.” They will conduct home visits with Medicare patients focused on preventative care, chronic disease management and post-hospital discharge follow-up.
“The goal is to improve the health of Rockford citizens,” Bergsten said.
Humana at Home of Chicago will reimburse the city for the visits which will utilize existing staff and equipment.