Developing A Complex Intervention to Integrate Community Paramedics in GP Out-of-Hours Care in Ireland: A Qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Emergency Medical Services
• Primary Care

Background:

• Irish general practice faces significant workforce challenges impacting out-of-hour care.
• Community Paramedics present a potential solution to support general practitioner (GP) out-of-hour services.
• Integration could improve overall system efficiency in Ireland's healthcare landscape.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential integration of Community Paramedics into general practitioner (GP) out-of-hour care in Ireland.
• To identify key considerations for the successful implementation of this integrated model.
• To understand how this integration can address workforce challenges and improve care delivery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposively selected participants.
• A thematic analysis, guided by the Braun and Clarke approach and supported by NVivo software, was performed.
• Themes were developed based on preliminary key model components, adhering to Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: Workforce Management, Synergies in Healthcare, Progressive Futuristic Care, and Safe Practice.
• These themes provided a foundation for developing key model components for integration.
• The analysis highlighted the importance of structured planning and defined roles.

Conclusions:

• Successful integration of Community Paramedics into GP out-of-hour care requires careful workforce planning.
• Clear definition, regulation, and governance involving national bodies are essential for the Community Paramedic role.
• Collaboration between GPs and Community Paramedics can enhance domiciliary care, reduce emergency department visits, and increase GP capacity for in-person consultations.