Across Canada, EMS is widely known and recognized for
its primary role in emergency medical transport in the
case of emergencies and for inter-hospital transfers.
9-1-1 is the standard number to access emergency care
across Canada. The vast majority of Canadians are
covered under, and are aware of, the number. However,
the public’s image of EMS is predominantly shaped by the
media including television programs designed for
entertainment, not education.
More importantly, planned and evaluated EMS public
education initiatives that proactively target injury
prevention and public safety remain endless. However,
EMS’ enormous potential is not being leveraged in this
area. In small and medium sized communities, paramedics
have a tremendous opportunity to operate injury
prevention programs while standing by for emergencies.
The value of EMS in the future is linked to the
provision of primary health care at the point where
citizens need it, providing services according to the
scope of practice determined and required by each
community. EMS is now, and needs to continue to
demonstrate that it is increasingly, a critical part of
the core fabric of the communities it serves. Indeed,
the mobile infrastructure and ability to link
traditional institutional health services with community
care is at the heart of EMS. In this manner, EMS of the
future will focus on prevention and wellness, will be
care oriented, and will earn and enhance the confidence
of the communities it serves. EMS will be there at the
right place, at the right time, with the right service.
More to come! Stay in touch!
