The Kemptville District Hospital is partnering with Leeds Grenville Paramedic Service on a new program. Paramedics will make scheduled house calls to check on seniors and other people with complex health issues following ER visits or hospitalization.
The paramedics will provide non-emergency care such as help with medications, wellness checks and safe home assessments.
The program will connect people to other community supports to bridge gaps in service. People with chronic illnesses, mental health concerns and disabilities can be referred.
Community paramedic programs help people live independently longer and reduce ER visits and hospital admissions.
KDH’s Team Lead for the ER Deb Mitchell says “by observing the patient in his or her home, the paramedic may identify a tripping hazard or other mobility or medical issue that we couldn’t possibly be aware of in the ER. This could definitely prevent a trip to the hospital.”
Funding for the program in partnership with KDH is provided by the Champlain Local Health Integration Network (LHIN).
For more information, visit kdh.on.ca.