Bill Summaries: H358 (2019-2020 Session)

Tracking:
  • Summary date: Mar 13 2019 - View summary

    Enacts new Article 8B, Community Paramedicine Program, in GS Chapter 131E establishing a community paramedicine program (program) in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Division of Health Service Regulation, Office of Emergency Medical Services (Office).  The purpose of the program is to expand the role of paramedics in community-based care initiatives that result in providing care that accomplishes the four stated goals, including improving individual and community health and reducing healthcare costs. Requires that the program be implemented in at least four different sites throughout the state, with preference to counties with existing community paramedic programs. Requires the adoption of rules specifying program objectives, standards, and participation requirements, which must include at least the four specified sets of requirements. Specifies that DHHS is not required to provide funding to program participants beyond the amount appropriated for such by the NCGA, and that the program is not an entitlement and does not create any property rights. 

    Appropriates $700,000 in recurring funds for 2019-20 and $700,000 in recurring funds for 2020-21 from the General Fund to the Office for the program. Allocates specified amounts to the McDowell County Emergency Medical Services program site, the New Hanover Regional Emergency Medical Services, the Wake Emergency Medical Services program site, and to a program site selected by DHHS.

    Effective July 1, 2019.