Community Paramedicine Program

About the Program

The Sandy Springs Fire Department's Community Paramedicine Program is an innovative healthcare initiative that extends the role of emergency medical services (EMS) beyond traditional 911 responses. In collaboration with healthcare providers, our paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) deliver non-emergency care directly to individuals in their homes or communities. This proactive approach enhances healthcare access, reduces unnecessary hospital visits and 911 calls, and helps prevent emergency situations by providing preventative and ongoing care.

By addressing health concerns before they escalate, the Community Paramedicine Program reduces the strain on emergency rooms, lowers healthcare costs, and improves patient outcomes.

Sandy Springs' Community Paramedic

Community paramedics are specially trained to manage a wide range of healthcare needs, including chronic disease management, wellness checks, medication management, and health screenings. They are a vital resource for individuals with limited access to healthcare or those at high risk of requiring emergency services.

Paul Long serves as the Community Paramedic for the Sandy Springs Fire Department, a role he began in November 2024. In this capacity, he is responsible for launching and expanding the city's Community Paramedicine Program. With 25 years of experience as a paramedic, Paul has worked extensively with Atlanta-area fire departments, health systems, mobile integrated health programs, and event medicine. He is an IBSC board-certified Community Paramedic — one of only 26 individuals in the state of Georgia to hold this distinction.

How to Request a Community Paramedic Visit

If you'd like to request a visit from Sandy Springs' Community Paramedic, please complete the form. We kindly ask that you be as detailed as possible when describing your — or the client's — situation, needs, or concerns. This will help the paramedic tailor the visit to the specific situation and provide the most effective support and care.

Community Paramedicine Program Referral Form (opens in new tab)

Disclaimer: All information shared during the community paramedicine visit is confidential and protected by privacy laws. The paramedic will only share information with authorized healthcare providers with the patient's consent or as required by law. Your privacy and confidentiality are our top priority.

MEDS Medical Emergency Data Sheet Program

The MEDS (Medical Emergency Data Sheet) program helps first responders quickly access critical medical information during an emergency. Residents complete the simple form listing medications, medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts, which is then stored in an easy-to-find location in the home — preferably on the refrigerator in a magnetic sleeve. Once the form is completed, the fire department will provide the magnetic sleeve upon request. When emergency personnel arrive, they can immediately reference this information to provide faster, safer, and more informed care. The program is free, easy to use, and designed to give both residents and their families greater peace of mind.

MEDS – Medical Emergency Data Sheet (PDF) (opens in new tab)