NC H487

Appropriates $210,000 to the Department of Health and Human Services for fiscal year 2015-2016 to establish a community paramedicine pilot project that expands paramedics' role in community-based care to reduce emergency room use and unnecessary hospital admissions.

Requires the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services to establish education standards and requirements for community paramedics, with the Department consulting to define project objectives, standards, and outcomes.

Establishes up to three pilot program sites with each site eligible to receive up to $70,000 in funding, with preference given to counties with existing community paramedic programs.

Requires the Department to submit progress report to Senate and House Appropriations committees by June 1, 2016, and a final report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services by November 1, 2016, including cost estimates for statewide expansion and potential state fund savings.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.