TIMMINS - A new and creative approach by local paramedics aims to broaden their services to assist vulnerable community members.
At the Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) meeting on Thursday (Oct. 17), some discussions centred on an innovative approach to providing healthcare to vulnerable populations. The program is going ahead, though they didn't say when it starts.
The goal is to enhance healthcare access for homeless and vulnerable populations by integrating point-of-care testing (POCT) into the community paramedic initiative.
This involves repurposing a decommissioned ambulance into a mobile assessment and temporary shelter, allowing paramedics to provide immediate diagnostic services, wound care, and health assessments directly in the community.
In a report, paramedic service chief Marc Renaud noted the significant demand for POCT within nursing homes and stressed the importance of extending assistance to people facing homelessness.
“The initiative includes repurposing a recently decommissioned ambulance into a community-led vehicle, serving as a mobile assessment area and temporary shelter,” he wrote.
Rebranding the vehicle would create a welcoming environment to promote safety and privacy for people seeking medical attention, Renaud said.
Director of health Jean Carriere highlighted the use of Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care Plus (CPLTC) paramedics to extend vital medical services beyond traditional mandates.
“We're getting out of our lane,” Carriere said, acknowledging that while this initiative may not align perfectly with core responsibilities, it will be fully funded by the province.
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The program will leverage existing staff and resources to enhance community services through partnerships with local agencies already engaged in outreach efforts.
“Paramedics are going to be going out and assisting with wound care, patient care assessments, and health assessments, which is anticipated to improve health access and outcomes, and will reduce hospital admissions and optimize the current resources that we have,” Carriere said.
This community-led initiative aims to deliver immediate diagnostic services directly to vulnerable individuals, facilitating connections with primary care physicians for prescriptions and medical advice.
According to Renaud, it will help improve healthcare accessibility, reduce hospital admissions and optimize resource utilization.
The program is financially sustainable, with funding secured for POCT devices and supplies, he said, though there will be minor costs for modifying the ambulance and ongoing expenses for maintenance and fuel.
