For Immediate Release
Middlesex-London Paramedic Service Expands Care Through Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care Plus Program
September 9, 2024 - The Middlesex-London Paramedic Service (MLPS) is proud to announce its participation in the new Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care Plus (CPLTC+) program, a pilot initiative launched by the Ministry of Long-Term Care. The CPLTC+ program expands on the existing Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program, allowing community paramedics to deliver essential diagnostic services directly in long-term care homes. These services include point-of-care testing such as urinalysis, Chem-8 and ultrasound, all of which help diagnose and treat conditions ranging from chronic kidney disease to diabetes.
The goal of the CPLTC+ program is to reduce unnecessary hospital visits and improve the quality of care for long-term care residents by providing diagnostic services within their residences. By minimizing the need to transport residents for routine testing, the program will reduce the physical and emotional stress placed on vulnerable patients, while also alleviating the demand on emergency room services.
The Ministry has provided MLPS with $500,000 in funding for the pilot program, which will be initially implemented at Strathmere Lodge and Dearness Home. The pilot is expected to reduce the strain on the 911 system, which sees over 2,500 calls annually from long-term care homes, by transitioning these non-emergency calls to community paramedics. This shift not only benefits the residents and the paramedics, but also eases pressures on hospitals and emergency departments.
The CPLTC+ pilot also underscores the continued commitment of MLPS to innovate and improve service delivery, aligning with the ongoing goals of the Middlesex-London Paramedic Service Authority Board to foster a culture of positive change and enhance healthcare outcomes for all patients.
Quotes:
“This program represents a significant step forward in delivering diagnostic care to those who need it most. Middlesex-London Paramedic Service Community Paramedics are highly skilled and strategically positioned to provide a positive impact with this program. By bringing these vital services into long-term care homes, we are reducing hospital visits, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring our community’s most vulnerable residents receive the care they need, where they need it most.” — Adam Bennett, Director of Paramedic Services, Middlesex-London Paramedic Service
“The City of London and Dearness Home are excited to partner with Middlesex-London Paramedic Service and the Ministry of Long-Term Care on this pilot. The ability to provide increased diagnostics to our long-term care residents will lead to better health outcomes and minimize the need for hospital transfers. This is a fantastic opportunity to increase access to healthcare for our citizens and residents." – Kevin Dickins, Deputy City Manager, Social and Health Development, City of London
“Strathmere Lodge is excited to be partnering with Middlesex-London Paramedic Services in its delivery of the new CPLTC+ program. The CPLTC+ program will be of great benefit to Lodge residents by providing more timely access to diagnostic services and additional treatment options, which will lead to better resident health outcomes, and minimize the need for hospital transfers, which can often be unsettling to long term care home residents.” – Brent Kerwin, Administrator, Strathmere Lodge Long Term Care Home
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Middlesex-London Paramedic Service (MLPS) is the direct provider of paramedic services for the County of Middlesex and the City of London. MLPS operates from 14 strategically located stations providing 24-hour pre-hospital emergency and non-emergency care to the residents and visitors of Middlesex County and the City of London. MLPS Headquarters, located at 1035 Adelaide Street South, London, Ontario oversees over 450 highly trained professionals including Paramedics, Supervisors, Logistics Technicians, Quality and Investigations Professionals, Management, Educational and Administrative Support Staff.
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