SEQUIM — Clallam County Fire District 3 has appointed its first-ever community paramedic.
Firefighter paramedic Mark Karjalainen will take on the role for the district that serves Sequim and the east end of Clallam County. District officials say the new role, approved in July, aims to improve responses to frequent 9-1-1 callers and handle non-emergent calls better.
Fire Chief Justin Grider explained the need for the position, saying, “We need someone to help take the load off the 9-1-1 system, especially for issues that a single medic can handle.” Karjalainen will address recurring problems like falls and medication management by connecting patients with local resources, helping prevent emergencies, and educating the community.
Karjalainen starts his new role the week of September 1, 2024.