Sandy Springs Fire Department Launches Community Paramedicine Program

The City of Sandy Springs Fire Department (SSFD) is proud to officially launch its Community Paramedicine Program. An innovative healthcare initiative that extends the reach of emergency medical services (EMS) beyond the traditional 911 response, the program aims to improve healthcare access, reduce unnecessary hospital visits and 911 calls, and prevent emergency situations by providing preventative and ongoing care.

The Community Paramedicine Program is led by Paul Long. Hired by the City in November 2024, Long brings more than 25 years of experience as a paramedic, having worked exclusively 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.

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

The Community Paramedicine Program will also integrate with RightSite, the telehealth service that the City launched last year, which offers consultations for patients who call 911 with non-acute medical issues.

To learn more or refer clients to a visit from the Sandy Springs Community Paramedic, visit the Community Paramedicine Program page on SandySpringsGA.gov.