Introducing Advanced Paramedics into the Rural General Practice Team in Ireland – General Practitioners Attitudes

Introduction: As Ireland's population increases and chronic disease becomes more prevalent, demand for limited general practice services will increase. Nursing roles within a are now considered to be standard, yet alternative non-medical professional under-explored an Irish context. Non-medical personnel such as Advanced Paramedics (APs) may have the capability provide support practice. Method: A sequential explanatory mixed methodology was adopted. questionnaire designed distributed purposeful sample of GPs attending rural conference followed by semi-structured interviews. Data recorded transcribed verbatim thematically analyzed. Results: In total n=27 responded survey n=13 were interviewed. The majority familiar with APs receptive concept closely collaborating variety settings including out-of-hours services, home visits, nursing homes, even surgery. Conclusion: GP AP clinical dovetail many facets primary care emergency care. believe that current models providing unsustainable, they realize potential integrating into team help future. These interviews detailed insight opinions practitioners in Ireland on healthcare provision clear necessity change.