“We’re trying to see patients before this program starts April 1 but certainly there’s a lot of planning that needs to go forwards and we’ve identified in hiring staff and training staff. The timeline is my proposal to the ministry (provincial Ministry of Long Term Care) is based on when and if we get approval. An expression of interest was submitted. I have not heard back from Ministry of Long Term Care that the program is approved. ”
Socha added, “We certainly had anticipated in the fall of last year. We did put an expression of interest out for our staff for those who are interested.
“We received 10 applications from the advanced paramedics who are willing to take the additional training so it would be my intent to train all of those if the funding is sufficient to go forward with that program.”
The program is to build on the framework already established for the community paramedic program and support clients waiting for long-term care, but will also be flexible to meet emergency needs.
Socha indicated it includes Prince Edward County as well.
It is 100% funded by Long Term Care.
Socha’s outline of the report on the program is a follows:
There is a short timeline with the goal of starting this program by April 1st, as we need to increase the number of community paramedics. This takes time for training, operational start up including ordering equipment and medical supplies.
The program is to build on the framework already established for the community paramedic program and support clients waiting for long-term care but will also be flexible to meet emergency needs, and those in crisis that are stressing the health care system. Key deliverables will need be established to allow for emergency response to a crisis patient, as well as establish set times to visit those on the wait list, and report back to primary care providers if there is that connection.
