Celebrating Community Paramedic Program

Published on June 02, 2024

Did you know that May is also Mental Health Awareness Month? Nearly one in five American adults experience a severe mental health challenge at some point. 

But what happens if you find yourself in urgent need of a doctor or mental health provider? You may have been suffering from symptoms for days, and you might live alone or not be in a condition to drive. Without other options, you pick up the phone and dial 9-1-1, hoping that someone can help. 

Fortunately, our Community Paramedics are here to help. Our dedicated paramedics connect residents with community resources to get the help they need. In addition to helping our residents stay healthy and safe, the program spares relatively scarce first responder resources, like our Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and ambulances, for more acute emergencies. 

The Community Paramedic program also helps patients work toward self-sufficiency. Our paramedics connect patients to community resources, such as local food banks, mental health and addiction support, and medical resources. They also educate residents on using their existing medical equipment (like insulin pumps or oxygen tanks). 

The Winchester Fire and Rescue Department (WFRD) started the Community Paramedic program in February 2022. WFRD is excited to welcome Ashley Hoffmann as its full-time Community Paramedic beginning at the end of May 2024. Ashley comes to the City with 20 years of experience in the Fire and Rescue field, 12 of which are as a paramedic. 

The City’s Community Paramedic program provides free services to all residents. To request assistance, please call (540) 662-2298. If you are struggling or in crisis, help is available. You can also call or text 988 to talk to a trained crisis counselor.