What is community paramedicine?

The program is a non-emergency service aimed to increase access to health and community services that would better support the individual while redirecting away from the hospital and emergency room.

The program includes scheduled check-ups, health assessments and in-home safety assessments. Once an individual’s needs are determined, the community paramedic will connect them to appropriate services in the community.

How will community paramedicine benefit you?

The program will help connect individuals to health and community services and prevent unnecessary 911 calls and emergency department visits while supporting people in their homes or in the community.

Who is community paramedicine for?

The program is designed to assist people living with chronic illness or ongoing health needs who have little support or have experienced difficulty accessing health care within the Region of Waterloo. People with complicated medical issues or other health problems may receive other special programming.

What is a community paramedic?

Community paramedics are certified paramedics who receive additional education, training and clinical experience in the field of community health to meet the health care needs of people living in the Region. Community paramedics do not transport people to hospital. Instead they visit people in their homes in non-emergency situations.

What to expect when a community paramedic arrives at the home?

Community paramedics will do a complete health and home safety assessment to determine individual needs. The paramedic and other health care providers will then connect the individual with community services and assist them in navigating the health care system.