BEH2141 - The paramedic in the community - 2017

This unit aims to develop paramedic awareness and understanding of the cross-cultural and demographically diverse community groups they will encounter as primary health care providers, and extend their capacity to communicate, build rapport and meaningfully engage with these groups. Students will gain valuable community engagement and participation experience through structured volunteer placements within strategically selected private, public and indigenous health related settings. Students will actively participate within these facilities in all aspects of the care programs being delivered allowing them to develop communication, listening and teamwork and skills whilst acquiring an insight into community health issues. In addition students will explore the valuable role they play as health care professionals in educating the community about the paramedics' role, and contributing to patient understanding of medical emergencies and the range of health care services and options available to them. Finally, through their community participation students will be expected to identify real or perceived gaps within the community health sector and devise strategies to narrow those gaps and achieve better health outcomes.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Compare and contrast the unique health concerns and requirements of the diverse population that paramedics care for within the community.
2. Demonstrate an appreciation for the role interpersonal skills play in gaining patient trust and promoting better health outcomes.
3. Identify ways in which community engagement can develop the scope of practice of the paramedics and enhance community relationships.
4. Explore the role of the paramedic in developing community capability and awareness to better manage medical emergencies.
5. Investigate the diverse needs of Indigenous Australians in the context of community based emergency health and identify ways in which the ambulance professional can enhance their awareness and participation in these needs.
6. Propose and plan strategies designed to strengthen community relationships and promote initiatives to improve community health outcomes.

• Community health project (50%) (Hurdle)
• Volunteer community participation portfolio (50%) (Hurdle)
• Volunteer community participation (Hurdle)

Hurdle requirements: To pass the unit the student must complete 50 hours of Volunteer community participation and attend at least 80% of tutorials.

Six hours per week involving community participation, lectures and tutorials.

See also Unit timetable information

Ms Linda Ross

Emergency health and paramedic practice

Must be enrolled in Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) or the Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice stream in Bachelor of Health Sciences.