The provincial government is expanding its paramedicine program for long-term care to include communities in the Kenora District.
A total of $82 million has been earmarked to expand to 22 more communities.
Barry Baltesson is chair of the District Services Board and explains what exactly they will be doing with the funding.
“Assessment and referrals…and this will be from both our internal and external partners,” explains Baltesson.
“Wellness clinics, focusing on seniors, social housing, and senior congregate areas. Home visits to assist the most vulnerable who can’t get in for proactive care. Remote patient monitoring.”
Baltessen adds under the program paramedics will help seniors in their own homes or long-term care settings.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford says the province is fully funding the program.
The idea is the reduce the number of hospital admissions.
The program was first piloted in five communities in October of 2020.
Pleased to announce the expansion of ON's Community Paramedicine Program for Long-Term Care to the @CityofKenora -supporting our NW ONT seniors with high-quality care in their own homes while they wait for a bed in long-term care @TheKDSB https://t.co/e37GWjg7si pic.twitter.com/cYprOHKbrw
— Greg Rickford (@GregRickford) February 1, 2022
