In the Community Paramedicine (CP) update, in the September 22, 2022, District of Muskoka Health and Safety meeting, representative, Darcy Medland, indicated that an increase of fleet from 13 to 16 is needed.

CP, a separate branch from the emergency paramedic services, is responsible for the outreach program that supports people in their home while they wait for long-term care placement, through phone and home visits, Remote Patient Monitoring, and Ontario Telemedicine Network support.

CP works through, community referrals by emergency response paramedics, wellness clinics, home visits, and working with community health partners, seven days a week, twelve hours a day.

According to Medland, “There’s an 86% decrease in use of paramedic services,” due to the CP program.

Medland added that $461,938 in funds were received for 2022-23, for “increasing staff, one paramedic and one vehicle.” They want to “bring up to six paramedics as community paramedics.”

Councillor, Terry Glover, inquired, “Are towns and townships equally taking advantage of this? We’re all thinking about a shared bulletin to help letting people know about this great program.”

Medland replied, “We’re seeing clients from all over…and clients see from our website.”

Glover added, “It’s the greatest program… A game changer regarding saving [hospital] beds.”

Medland indicated, “The program will open in Huntsville soon to ensure healthcare in the District.”

Councillor, Sandy Cairns, expressed concern about funding being available during start up and not continuing, inquiring if there was a way to maintain it.

Councillor Steven Clement indicated the funding was for one time, but they can “hopefully lobby and prove the system works.”