This week’s adventure brings me to Cabarrus County to learn about the Community Paramedic Program. Located in the south-central part of North Carolina. Consisting of six towns and cities – City of Concord, Kannapolis. and Locust & Towns of Harrisburg, Midland, Mount Pleasant.
My day started with meeting the lovely Sandra & Ann. Two Community Paramedics in Cabarrus. They explained to me their roles within the job & what the Community Paramedic Program really does for the citizens of Cabarrus. Getting to treat patients in non-emergency situations. They can help with primary health care and preventative services quickly and efficiently.
We started the day by visiting HQ Station 9 (EMS 91, EMS 92) . Their beautiful brand new facility. Touring the new offices, supply rooms (Which have cool vending machines), and a state-in-the-art scenario room. Where Public Relations & Community Education Director-
Kara Clarke displayed the technology they use to utilize their skills and practice custom designed scenarios. With fans and scents pumping through the air, they can get very close to the senses that are activated during a live situation. With three sides of touch interactive walls, any age can enjoy. Shortly after my tour, Sandra and I went to a call to a patient’s home. During a time like this she will check the patient’s supplies, help administer any drugs or practices. While getting to know each other which only makes taking care of one’s health much easier. My experience during this call was super pleasant. I enjoyed watching Sandra and the patient interact, I could tell a friendship was set. My next call was with Nicole. Nicole is a part of the M.A.T. Program. Standing for Medication Assisted Treatment. She really dives into the opioid issue within the county. Helping with teaching, administering & providing Suboxone, daily essentials, medication, recovery resources & more. She explained to me her day to day & I got to see how a visit like that can look. She was extremely kind & determined to help.
Between my two calls I met with Chief Jimmy Lentz. Where he allowed me to see a few things Cabarrus County can offer. Viewing zMAX Dragway, Charlotte Motor Speedway & The Concord Regional Airport. From walking down the dragway and feeling the layers of rubber on the ground, to taking a drive around the speedway feeling like a NASCAR. Lets not forget the tour of Concord Regional Airport in the ARFF truck.
My time in Cabarrus County was super informative & exciting. I want to say Thank You to everyone who took care of me that day. The ladies in the Community Paramedic Program do extremely important work. I was not aware of the amount of important services they provide. They are a needed link in their community. My visit was a great representation of the amazing service Cabarrus provides & the great people providing it.
