BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
Bradford County Board of County Commissioners welcomed a new addition to its community paramedicine efforts at the Dec. 18 meeting, officially introducing David Jackson as the next community paramedic for Bradford County Fire Rescue.
Fire Chief Ben Carter lauded Jackson’s experience and commitment. “(David’s) a paramedic firefighter. Has been with our department for a couple years now. He truly has a heart for caring for people, and that’s really what we focused on,” Carter said. Carter noted that Jackson was selected after an extensive interview process and that he stood out “against some tough candidates … all of whom have been here for 10 years or more.”
Jackson, addressing the commissioners and the community, expressed gratitude and optimism for the continued growth of the paramedicine program. “Just want to start by thanking you, commissioners, and you, chief, for the continued support and the growth for this community paramedicine program,” he said. “It is no secret that Lt. (David) Weeks has taken this program and made it a smashing success, and my only goal is to amplify that success in any way I can so that we can reach more citizens and help more. So, whatever he needs, I’m here for him.”
The paramedicine program is an innovative approach to health care that extends beyond traditional emergency response. Originally modeled after programs in Alachua and other counties, the program aims to proactively address community health needs, particularly in response to the opioid crisis.
Recovery means addressing many levels of need, including chronic disease treatment and access to health care. Working with partners like Meridian, BCFR has made overdose prevention kits available throughout the community and instituted medically assisted addiction recovery. By helping patients proactively address their needs and pairing them with health care providers, the program has positively impacted the number of patients relying on EMS and the emergency room for regular care.
Opioid abatement dollars fund the program, and a recent release of funding allowed BCFR to add a second position to assist Lt. Weeks, who was recently named the first ever Rural EMS Hero by the Florida Rural Health Association. “Really proud of the work that he’s doing through our Community Paramedicine Program and so pleased with what that program has been able to do for our community at no cost to the taxpayers, which is a great part,” Carter said.
County officials and board members applauded both employees for their service, expressing pride in the fire rescue team’s statewide recognition and the dedication to Bradford County’s residents.
