According to local first responders, approximately 70% of discharged patients wind up back in the hospital within 30 days of their release.
Now, Peoria first responders and others throughout the West Valley are working together to combat this high statistic.
The Peoria Fire-Medical Department was recently awarded a $175,000 grant to facilitate a one-year community paramedicine pilot program with fire departments from the cities of Goodyear and Surprise. The Peoria City Council unanimously approved the agreement at a September 3 regular meeting, with Goodyear and Surprise council members slated to approve their measures later this month. Assuming no logistical challenges arise, the program should take effect Monday, September 30, Peoria spokeswoman Kristina Perez said.