EMS partnerships key for getting grants

In the face of rising competition and the heightened EMS system demands for 24/7 ALS services, EMS managers have a lot on their plates. Many may find themselves overwhelmed with grant application processes and therefore shelve the opportunities for when they have more time, expert help and less responsibility.

Realistically, those days never come.

EMS administrators who want to push their organizations to realize new ventures through grant funding are often intimidated by the many other contenders vying for the award. Further complicating the grant process are eligibility requirements that restrict funding to specific kinds of recipients.

Without a keen eye for eligibility, many EMS managers mistakenly assume that they are not able to qualify for many funding opportunities as private for-profit or public and private not-for-profit entities.

EMS managers must understand that partnerships are the key to securing funding. Therefore, when you search for and become involved with programs that are receiving grant sustenance, there is a chance you may be considered eligible for some of that funding.

For example, if grant funding being allotted to reduce hospital re-admissions is restricted to hospitals, EMS agencies should find a value proposition for hospital administrators in order to secure mutually beneficial program partnerships.

Ambulance providers already have an advantage in integrating themselves into the healthcare network. As mobile healthcare providers, EMS companies have direct contact with the entire spectrum of health care agencies, acting as conveyors of patient care information and facilitating access to care.

EMS managers can position themselves as unique resources for patient care data if they are able to quantify 911 caller profiles, such as "frequent flyers" and unnecessary emergency room visitors.

This information is valuable for hospitals and health departments that are continuously working to reduce system inefficiencies.

Furthermore, as community paramedic programs gains popularity across the U.S., partnerships facilitate a means to preserve patient continuity of care and reduce costs associated with ineffective use of the healthcare system.

There is no dispute that grant agencies are continuing to prioritize healthcare integration among funding recipients. With such a focus, partnerships demonstrate program support and credibility.

Please visit www.oa-emsconsulting.com/jsa_blog for:

• Tips on obtaining documented support from fellow healthcare providers and a downloadable sample letter of support as a guide
• Resources for finding evidence and conducting needs assessments for grant application requirements
• Public affairs and marketing strategies for EMS agencies seeking to develop partnerships in their healthcare communities