Relationship Between Mental and Physical Health Among Frequent 9-1-1 Callers: A Preliminary Report

Background Older adults with complex health needs frequently utilize emergency medical services (EMS), reflecting gaps in community-based support systems. Community paramedicine, in which EMS professionals operate in expanded support roles, offers interventions to address multiple domains of wellbeing. However, research on the relationship between mental and physical health suggests it is important to better understand both domains. Objective This exploratory study assessed baseline data collected by the Pinellas Park, Florida, CARES (Community Assistance Resources, Education, and Safety) program, with the goal of better understanding the needs of frequent 9-1-1 callers to guide future interventions. Methods Pinellas Park Fire Department staff identified frequent 9-1-1 callers and developed a survey concerning their needs and resources. Staff administered the survey during a home visit with those who agreed to participate. Data were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test to evaluate the relationship between participants’ mental health and other variables. Results A Fisher’s Exact Test indicated an association between mental and physical health ( p = .004, Φ = .62). Specifically, 76.2% of participants who reported better mental health also reported better physical health. Similarly, 90% of those reporting better mental health endorsed that their life had purpose ( p = .005, Φ = .66). Conclusion The association between physical and mental health aligns with existing literature on the relationship between these domains in older adults. Future EMS interventions may benefit from addressing callers’ mental health and psychosocial factors.