Introduction
Paramedicine evolved from the discipline of medicine. As paramedicine emerges out of its pre-hospital silo and integrates more broadly into healthcare systems, paramedicine once again looks to collaborate with medicine. It is for this reason that the Australian Institute of Paramedic Practitioners (AIPP) has established this Paramedic Practitioner Practice Framework where we clearly articulate paramedic integration and articulation into primary healthcare. The Paramedic Practitioner is the highest clinical tier in the evolution for paramedic integraton into primary healthcare.
Paramedics are primarily educated to respond to medical emergencies. In that context they assess, diagnose and initiate treatment, for patients in a community setting. Paramedic Practitioners build upon this existing knowledge, skill and experience and have completed additional primary healthcare education at Master’s level (or an AIPP approved equivalent). This additional education creates a clinician who can execute advanced assessments, complex clinical reasoning, evidence-based decision making and advanced care planning.
Integral to the Paramedic Practitioner model is a nuanced mix of clinical autonomy and collaboration. Essential to practice is knowledge of limitations, clinical support, professional integrity, reflective practice, and continual professional development. These essential professional capabilities result in a clinician that is committed to patient centred, safe and collaborative healthcare.
This Paramedic Practitioner Practice Framework has been developed to describe a range of capabilities that Paramedic Practitioners are capable of and adhere to. The Framework sets standards for the knowledge, skills and professional attributes required to be a Paramedic Practitioner.
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