Coalition of local fire departments will use funds to train 24 EMTs in community paramedicine

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced today that the Metro Region Fire Chiefs—a coalition of fire departments in Cape Elizabeth, Cumberland, Falmouth, Gorham, Portland, Scarborough, South Portland, and Westbrook—will receive a federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant for $225,090 to train EMTs in community paramedicine.

“I’ve always been a proud supporter of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program because it has been a huge asset in making sure Maine’s first responders have the up-to-date training and equipment they need to keep our communities safe,” Pingree said. “The effort of the Metro Region Fire Chiefs is a great example. These funds will help train and certify 24 local EMTs in community paramedicine, an innovative model that is leading to better health outcomes, fewer trips to the emergency room, and lower costs for individuals and communities. In an era of tight municipal budgets, I’m excited these towns will be able to make this investment without putting an additional burden on local taxpayers.”

Community paramedicine is an emerging model that expands the role of paramedics to help individuals access primary care options that are less expensive than frequent trips to the emergency room and can lead to better long-term outcomes.

The Scarborough Fire Department, under Chief B. Michael Thurlow, was the lead department in applying for the grant.