Lanark County paramedic chief Travis Mellema honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal

A celebratory spirit was in the air this week as Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) Chief Travis Mellema was awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Established in 2023, the King Charles III Coronation Medal is awarded to Canadians who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in their professions in public service. Chief Mellama is a recipient of this award for his outstanding contributions to public service and healthcare innovation in the Lanark community when it comes to both patient care and paramedic well-being.

According to a press release issued by the Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) on Wednesday, March 19, Mellema is “deeply honoured” to have received this award, but he wants to draw attention to his entire team. He shared,  “The dedication and innovation of our paramedics, leadership, and community partners have made these programs a reality. We remain committed to ensuring these essential services continue for the residents of Lanark County.”

Under Chief Mellema’s leadership, LCPS has introduced several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at improving community health services, including:

• Community Paramedicine & Outreach Programs – Delivering in-home healthcare, chronic disease management, and urgent care interventions to vulnerable populations. 
• Palliative Care Paramedicine – Ensuring patients receive compassionate, end-of-life care in their preferred location. 
• Mental Health & Workforce Safety Advocacy – Strengthening mental health supports for paramedics, including access to clinical psychologists and peer support networks.
• Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program – Overseeing Lanark County’s AED registry, allowing 911 dispatchers to direct bystanders to life-saving defibrillators.

According to retired RN and chair of the Lanark County Victim Services Board, Mary Pat Bingley, “The programs introduced under Travis’s leadership —have been the most impactful change to healthcare in Lanark County in over four decades. These services and supports have transformed access to care for those who need it most.”