The Indiana Emergency Medical Services Commission on Friday approved the Westfield Fire Department’s (WFD) Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) Program.
In November 2022, WFD’s EMS Division added a social worker to its team. The social worker and Field Resource Paramedics function outside of customary emergency response. They have conducted home safety evaluations, assisted patients with chronic disease management, and mitigated substance abuse situations and mental health crises.
The program continues to reduce 911 calls, emergency department visits, and hospital readmissions. The WFD initiative brings care into individuals’ homes and supports connections between patients and other social service, behavioral health, and medical providers.
Only MIH programs approved by the EMS Commission, in accordance with state guidelines established in April 2021, are eligible for reimbursement for services.