Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference (ACPIC23)

ACPIC23 delivered a wide range of clinical and research sessions from experts and leaders in paramedicine. Hosted in Melbourne (September 2023) the program was designed to inspire, educate and broaden horizons.

Conference theme: Lead - Evolve - Impact

Best of the Best – The Lived Experience of Paramedics Delivering Care to the Mentally Unwell: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study

Changing consumer demands have necessitated ambulance services to transform their approach to patient care. Evidence-informed clinical practice guidelines for physical health have expanded, but not for mental health. This descriptive phenomenological study sought to understand the lived experiences of paramedics caring for mentally unwell individuals in the community. Eighteen Australian paramedics were interviewed, illuminating four central themes: 1) Are we ready for this - the paramedic and patient interaction?, 2) The barriers to accessing care for mental health consumers in a one size fits all system, 3) It's just all a little bit grey, paramedic education and training on mental health presentations, and 4) The Paramedic, The Clinician, and The Person. The findings emphasise the need for improved education, training, support, and enhanced access to specialised services and referral networks.

Biography: Matthew Simpson

Matthew is a Paramedic Specialist and PhD Candidate at Western Sydney University. His research is a phenomenological study on the lived experience of paramedics delivering mental health care. Throughout his 23-year career in paramedicine, he has completed intensive care and community paramedicine specialisations and led the integrated care team. Presently, he is working in virtual care. An advocate for equitable levels of care delivery, he is particularly passionate about addressing the healthcare needs of rural communities. Matthew's contributions to paramedicine extend to voluntary roles, including senior literature reviewer for the Canadian prehospital evidence-based program and former Clinical Lead for St John Ambulance NSW Clinical Advisory Group

Moderator: Dr Tegwyn McManamny, Intensive Care Paramedic and Lead Patient Review Specialist, Ambulance Victoria