The program, which is fully funded by the provincial government and already operating across 33 Ontario communities is expanding to 22 more including Bruce County.
Walker says that the expansion of the Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care Program to Bruce County will support local seniors by providing them high-quality care when and where they need in their own homes, while they wait for a bed in long-term care.
Thompson says the program helps seniors with 24-7 access to health care and enhanced at-home supports. She adds it has shown to reduce visits to the emergency department and hospitalizations as well.
The program works alongside primary care and home and community care to provide the following to eligible seniors:
- Access to health services 24-7, through in-home and remote methods, such as online supports;
- Non-emergency home visits and in-home testing procedures;
- Ongoing monitoring of vital signs to prevent escalation of chronic medical conditions; and
- Assessments, referrals, diagnostic procedures, and point-of care testing.