In a recent development highlighted by excerpts from OrangeCountyRegister.com, a unique initiative has been making waves in Anaheim, California. This pilot program, launched on May 31st, employs a single nurse practitioner—Victoria Morrison—to handle low-level 911 medical calls directly in people's homes. Known as the Community Care Response Unit, the program seeks to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and cut costs within the healthcare system.
Morrison, who works a 40-hour week, handles cases that range from minor ailments to more complex situations requiring basic intervention. She explained, "Many callers are simply scared and need reassurance. Others genuinely require hospital attention." Her role extends beyond mere diagnosis; she can even prescribe medication when necessary.
The program's impact is already evident. Of the 230 patients Morrison has attended to so far, nearly half either received treatment at home or were referred to their regular doctors. This approach not only saves patients significant expenses—avoiding costly ambulance rides and ER visits—but also cuts down on wait times significantly.
Funded partly through a $210,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente and collaboration with Care Ambulance Service, the project costs around $500,000 annually. Despite these expenditures, Anaheim Fire Chief Randy Bruegman expressed optimism about continuing the program. He noted, "Residents value this model because it offers quality care at reduced costs."
This innovative model originated in Mesa, Arizona, back in 2008 under Dr. Gary Smith. Although initially short-lived due to budget constraints, it was revived in 2011 with local support. Now operating round-the-clock, this concept has inspired similar programs in five U.S. cities, including Los Angeles.
Morrison emphasized, "People often assume ambulances guarantee quicker access to emergency rooms, but that’s not always true. I assure them they'll receive equally effective care much faster." As the program progresses, its success suggests potential nationwide expansion, promising both efficiency and affordability in healthcare delivery.
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