Medication Safety and Opioid Risk Screening Program Delivered by Community Paramedics
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Abstract
Objective:
To describe the program and associated outcomes of an innovative medication safety and opioid risk screening program delivered by community paramedics
Methods:
The study was conducted within a health system community paramedic program in North America. Community paramedics employed a medication safety questionnaire and opioid risk assessment tool during home visits, offering tailored interventions based on individual patient risks. Data collection and analysis were facilitated through REDCap and the health system’s electronic health record.
Results:
Analysis of 435 patient screenings revealed notable findings. A meaningful portion of patients used opioids for pain management, with a subset identified at high risk for opioid misuse or overdose. While most patients stored medications safely, disposal practices varied, highlighting a need for education and intervention. Discrepancies in service provision between service areas identified multiple possible barriers and solutions.
Conclusion:
This research underscores the importance of proactive medication safety measures within community paramedicine and provides an example of a community paramedic program designed around community-based need, stakeholder collaboration, and program evaluation. Future efforts should focus on improving data collection methods, and advocating for sustainable funding to support comprehensive intervention strategies aimed at enhancing patient safety and well-being.
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