During Paramedic Services Week, May 17–23, 2026, CUPE 1842 recognizes and celebrates the dedication, professionalism, and compassion of the paramedics serving communities across Hastings County.
This year’s provincial theme, “Better Care Starts Here,” highlights the vital role paramedics play as highly trusted medical professionals delivering expert, compassionate, and evidence-informed care across all practice settings. Whether responding to emergencies in the community, supporting patients through complex medical situations, or providing care during moments of crisis, paramedics are often the first point of contact in the healthcare system.
“Paramedics are far more than emergency responders,” said Samantha deHaan, Secretary of CUPE local 1842. “They are highly skilled healthcare professionals who bring clinical expertise, compassion, and calm into some of the most difficult moments people will ever experience. Every day, our members provide exceptional care to patients across Hastings County, and this week gives us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate that work.”
There are approximately 240 full-time and part-time paramedics serving Hastings County with advanced medical knowledge and professionalism.
It takes the collaborative efforts of healthcare and emergency service partners, including dispatchers, nurses, physicians, firefighters, police officers, hospital staff, and allied healthcare professionals who work together to improve outcomes for patients across the region.
Throughout the week, there will be member appreciation initiatives, community engagement activities, and social media campaigns highlighting the important contributions paramedics make every day.
