Members of CARP Greater Bay of Quinte Chapter 39 learned how community paramedics are helping older adults remain safe and independent at home during the chapter’s July 14 meeting at the Belleville/Quinte West 55+ Centre.

Guest speaker Nathan Dudley, CEMC, Superintendent of Emergency Management and Community Programming with Hastings Quinte Paramedic Service, explained how Community Paramedicine has evolved beyond emergency response to provide preventive healthcare, chronic disease management, wellness checks, and healthcare system navigation for vulnerable residents.

“As a mobile doorway to care, Community Paramedicine bridges the gap between healthcare services and the patient’s home,” Dudley said. “It is about helping people who wish to remain at home receive the care they need.”

Community paramedics are specially trained professionals who provide scheduled, non-emergency care in patients’ homes. Their goal is to help people manage chronic health conditions, prevent unnecessary trips to the emergency department, and connect residents with healthcare and community support services.

The Eastern Ontario Community Paramedics Program works closely with family physicians, Ontario Health at Home, hospitals, and other healthcare providers to improve access to care for people who may have difficulty leaving their homes.

Services Available

Depending on an individual’s needs, community paramedics may provide:

• Blood pressure and vital signs monitoring
• Blood work, including INR testing
• Electrocardiograms (ECGs)
• Wellness checks
• Urinalysis
• COVID-19 testing
• Influenza vaccinations
• Health education and self-management support

Remote Patient Monitoring

Eligible patients may also receive remote monitoring of:

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Blood glucose
• Oxygen levels

Helping People Stay Independent

Community paramedics also help patients navigate the healthcare system by connecting them with local health and community services that support independent living. Regular in-home wellness visits can be arranged for eligible adults who live alone or require ongoing monitoring.

How to Access the Program

Referrals to the Community Paramedicine Program can be made by Ontario Health at Home, family physicians, healthcare providers, individuals, or family members.

For residents of Hastings and Quinte, information about referrals and non-emergency assessments is available through the Hastings Quinte Community Paramedic Program. Residents outside the region can contact their local Community Paramedicine program to learn about available services and eligibility.

Community Paramedicine is becoming an increasingly important part of Ontario’s healthcare system by bringing care directly into people’s homes. For many seniors and individuals living with chronic health conditions, these programs provide another way to stay safe, healthy, and independent while reducing the need for emergency department visits.

Learn More

• Hastings Quinte Community Paramedicine Program: 613-771-9366 ext. 300 or visit their website.
• Ask your family physician or Ontario Health at Home if you or a family member might benefit from a referral.
• Visit Community Paramedics Ontario to learn about programs available in your region.
• General Ontario Support: at Community Paramedics Ontario

CARP Greater Bay of Quinte Chapter 39 regularly invites healthcare experts to speak on topics that help older adults make informed decisions about aging well and living independently.