Lanark County introduces ‘Fit-to-Sit’ Program to improve emergency department efficiency

A new approach to patient care in emergency departments is being introduced across Lanark County, as local health care services work together with the aim to reduce ambulance wait times and improve access to urgent care.

The initiative, called the “Fit-to-Sit” program, is led by Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) in collaboration with the Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) and the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital (PSMDH). This program allows paramedics to transfer certain patients directly to an emergency department waiting area—provided they meet strict medical criteria, according to a release from the MRHA.

Under the new program, only patients who are medically stable, considered low acuity, and able to sit comfortably, are eligible. Those with more complex or urgent medical needs will continue to receive traditional care, as the LCPS reiterates that patient safety remains the top priority.

“Our crews are responding to more calls than ever before, and every minute matters,” said Travis Mellema, chief of LCPS. “Fit-to-Sit means that when your neighbour calls 911, there’s an ambulance available to respond. That’s what this is really about—keeping our community safe.”

According to the MRHA, the program addresses a growing challenge in the region, the increasing demand for emergency services and resulting ambulance offload delays because paramedics must wait at hospitals before transferring patients.

“This process is only used when patients have been assessed and meet clearly defined clinical criteria. Care is always prioritized based on medical need,” explained Brad Harrington, president and CEO of the MRHA.

The new approach is now being adopted at emergency departments across the county, including Almonte General Hospital, Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital, and the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital.