The Joliet Fire Department (JFD), in partnership with the Will County Health Clinic, announced a new initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being of Joliet residents through expanded access to Community Paramedic (CP) services.
The program embeds a Community Paramedic directly into the patient care process at the Clinic,
providing at-home follow-up visits for individuals with chronic health conditions that are frequently
linked to hospital readmissions.
These conditions include congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, post-surgical recovery, and mental health challenges.
This partnership ensures patients have access to critical support services at no cost, helping them manage their conditions more effectively at home while reducing unnecessary hospital visits.
“Our goal is to improve outcomes for residents by bringing care directly into the community,” said
Joliet Fire Chief Jeff Carey in a press release. “This program reflects our department’s commitment to proactive, patient-centered service.”
Community Paramedics will work closely with Clinic staff to provide personalized follow-up care. Their
responsibilities include checking vital signs, ensuring patients are attending follow-up medical
appointments, verifying prescriptions and medications, and assessing the safety of the home
environment.
The program also supports long-term health goals and improvements in quality of life.
In addition to health monitoring, CPs collaborate with the JFD social worker and local agencies to
connect patients with other essential resources, such as food, transportation, or housing assistance
that fall outside the scope of traditional medical care.
“This partnership is about meeting people where they are,” said Stacy Baumgartner, Chief Executive
Officer of the Will County Health Clinic, in the release. “Together with the Joliet Fire Department, we’re building a safety net that extends well beyond the hospital walls.”
The program has been implemented at Silver Cross Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center for Joliet
residents.
For more information about the Community Paramedic Program, contact the Joliet Fire Department at email at [email protected] or by phone at 815-724-3512.