CORNWALL, Ontario – A fundamental shift in how emergency medical services are delivered in Cornwall and Stormont-Dundas-Glengarry may be the remedy for freeing up EMS and hospital resources.
A group of local paramedics are now making home visits to at-risk residents in Cornwall and SD&G as part of a new pilot project that kicked off this week, according to a media statement provided by the City of Cornwall.
Through the Community Paramedic Program, members of Cornwall SD&G Emergency Medical Services will be providing at-home care to select residents in the community, with a focus on seniors and patients living with chronic conditions.
Paramedics will be using their training and assessment skills to monitor independence and overall health of residents and checking on things such as vitals and medication compliance.
The ultimate goal is to reduce hospital readmissions and transports to emergency departments.
“Through this new program, we are looking to intervene and provide support when needed before a crisis arrives,” said Michelle McMillan, Community Paramedicine Coordinator.
Clients of the program are identified by EMS officials during regular 911 calls as well as through referrals from hospital discharge and medical doctors in the community. Direct requests from the public are not being taken at this time, and interested individuals should speak with their physician to see if the service is right for them.
A group of 11 Community Paramedics – comprised of members from the existing staff of EMS – will be providing the service on a rotating basis throughout Cornwall and SDG during weekdays.
“In addition to freeing up resources, the Community Paramedic Program will ensure patients receive more appropriate care for their needs,” said Chief of EMS Myles Cassidy. “This pilot project represents a significant change from how we have traditionally handled non-emergent cases.”
The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is funding the pilot project, which will run until July 31st, 2015. Similar pilot projects are being implemented in about 30 other Ontario communities.
The program will operate in partnership with Cornwall Community Hospital, Champlain LHIN Community Care Access Centre and other local health care organizations.
About Cornwall SD&G EMS
Cornwall SD&G Emergency Medical Services provides 24-hour, 365-day emergency coverage to the City of Cornwall and the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.
An integral component of the regional 911 system, Paramedics respond to victims of sudden illness or injury. Highly trained and skilled in the pre-hospital management of a wide spectrum of emergencies, Paramedics attempt to stabilize and render treatment to patients at the scene and on route to medical facilities.
Dispatched from the Ottawa Central Ambulance Communication Centre, the fleet responds to over 13,000 requests for emergent service and non- emergent inter-facility transfers annually.
