Ontario expanding existing community Paramedicine Program to long-term care in Norfolk County

Investment will help more seniors stay in their own homes longer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 1, 2021

NORFOLK – The Ontario government is investing $2,567,000 million to expand the Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program in Norfolk County. This initiative will help more seniors on long-term care waitlists stay safe while living in the comfort of their own homes for longer.

Details of the new program were provided today by Toby Barrett, MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk.

“This is another tool in the toolbox to assist seniors to stay in their homes longer,” said Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Toby Barrett.

The long-term care focused Community Paramedicine program leverages the skills of community paramedic providers to help end hallway health care and provide additional care for seniors. The first phase of this program was announced in October 2020, in partnership with five communities. This expansion will help keep seniors safe, while delaying the need for long-term care by providing enhanced at-home supports.

“The community paramedicine program provides our seniors, their families and caregivers peace of mind while waiting for a long-term care space,” said Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care. “Expanding the program across the province means that more of our loved ones can access services from their own homes, potentially even delaying the need for long-term care, while still providing the quality care and service they need and deserve.”

The program will be delivered through local communities, providing:

Haldimand County does not have a paramedicine for long-term care program in place on a permanent basis.

The Community Paramedicine program is yet another way Ontario is collaborating with our health system partners to provide innovative services and end hallway health care, build a 21st century long-term care system, and respond to the impact COVID-19 has had on seniors and their families.

Additional Resources:

  • Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.

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For more information, contact MPP Toby Barrett at 519-428-0446

or toby.barrett@pc.ola.org