Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference (ACPIC24)

ACPIC 2024 delivered a wide range of clinical and research sessions from experts and leaders in paramedicine. Hosted in Sydney (September 2024) the program was designed to inspire, educate and broaden horizons.

Conference theme: Paramedicine's evolution – Embracing the new era

Improving access to care with the CP@clinic program: A program evaluation for feasibility and fit in rural Australian community health

In partnership with McMaster University, La Trobe University and Sunraysia Community Health Services implemented CP@clinic, an evidenced-based community paramedicine program in rural Australia. Weekly drop-in clinics delivered chronic disease screening, referrals, and health education, which recorded data and client care in a purpose-built database. A mixed-methods evaluation assessed program feasibility and fit, finding high client acceptability, significant healthcare needs, and improved community engagement. Expansion to additional sites is underway, despite identified barriers to paramedic integration in primary care. Future evaluations will explore health outcomes and cost-effectiveness across rural settings.

Biography: Dr Louise Reynolds

Dr Louise Reynolds, Safer Care Victoria's Chief Paramedic Officer and ACU Associate Professor in Paramedicine, began her career as a student paramedic with SA Ambulance Service. Her career included operational and educational roles across Australia, the UK, and South-East Asia. As Australia's first female paramedic with a doctoral degree, her research focuses on qualitative explorations of paramedicine evolving professional culture, education, systems and leadership. She's a five-time editor of 'Understanding the Australian Health Care System', contributing to the paramedicine chapter.

Moderator: Andrew Odgers, ACPIC24 Organising Committee Member