Government urged to provide more supports to community paramedics

The Government is being urged to provide more supports and training to community paramedics. It's thought that with the growing shortage in primary care providers in the North West and elsewhere, community paramedics could bridge the gap. A recent study by the National Ambulance Service Ireland has shown that almost 56% of patients responded to by community paramedics were discharged to an alternative care pathway by those paramedics. Addressing the Tánaiste in the Dáil, Independent TD Thomas Pringle says it's clear that they already play a vital role in the healthcare system, but that they could be utilised even further. Responding, Michael Martin says it would be positive move and is set to raise it with the Health Minister: