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The Caroline County Department of Emergency Services (DES) is pleased to announce the promotion of Shawne Hughes to Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) Paramedic Program Manager, recognizing his 25 years of dedicated service to Caroline County and his continued commitment to providing quality emergency medical services to the community.
Prior to his promotion, Hughes was assigned to B Shift, where he served as a paramedic and Field Training Officer (FTO). Throughout his career, he has contributed to the delivery of emergency medical services and supported the training, mentorship, and professional development of EMS personnel.
In his new role, Hughes will help lead the implementation and ongoing development of the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Program, a collaborative initiative between the Caroline County Department of Emergency Services EMS Division and the Caroline County Health Department. The program is designed to improve access to healthcare, enhance patient outcomes, and provide additional support to residents whose needs may be better addressed through coordinated, community-based care.
The concept for the MIH program was first introduced nearly three years ago through collaborative discussions between the two agencies. Since that time, the initiative has advanced through a comprehensive community needs assessment, the development of program policies and procedures, and the securing of necessary funding. Dedicated staff have also been hired through the Caroline County Health Department to support the administration and delivery of program services.
The program will operate through a coordinated team consisting of a registered nurse and a paramedic who will conduct in-home visits for residents who may benefit from additional healthcare support. Through proactive engagement, care coordination, and connections to appropriate healthcare resources, the program aims to improve health outcomes, reduce unnecessary 911 utilization, and help prevent avoidable emergency department visits.
As EMS call volumes and demands on emergency response resources continue to increase, the MIH program represents an important step toward expanding the delivery of community-based healthcare. By working together, Caroline County DES and the Caroline County Health Department aim to provide a more proactive approach to patient care while ensuring emergency resources remain available for urgent and life-threatening situations.
Hughes's 25 years of experience with Caroline County DES, including his work as a paramedic and Field Training Officer, will be valuable as he assumes leadership of this initiative. His promotion also reflects the department's commitment to developing experienced personnel and strengthening partnerships that improve the health, safety, and well-being of Caroline County residents.
The Caroline County Department of Emergency Services congratulates Shawne Hughes on his promotion and thanks him for 25 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Caroline County.
