Lanark County recognizes evolving role of paramedics during Paramedic Services Week
Communities across Lanark County are recognizing the ever-changing and critical role paramedics play within the local healthcare system during Paramedic Services Week 2026.
Warden Richard Kidd also officially proclaimed May 17 to 23 as Paramedic Services Week in Lanark County, which will serve as a week-long recognition campaign under the provincial theme “Better Care Starts Here.”
“Better Care Starts Here” is an initiative to celebrate frontline paramedics and support staff while drawing attention to the expanding responsibilities of modern paramedicine beyond just emergency response.
According to a release from the Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) issued on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, paramedics today play an increasingly integrated role in healthcare delivery through community outreach, preventative care, wellness checks and partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers.
Lanark County paramedics respond to more than 16,000 patient calls annually across the region while also developing community-based healthcare initiatives focused on prevention, early intervention and patient-centred care, the release detailed.
“Paramedicine continues to evolve in meaningful ways, and our staff consistently demonstrate the professionalism, compassion, and adaptability needed to meet the growing and changing needs of our communities,” said Travis Mellema, chief of Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS). “Our team continues to make a significant impact every single day.”
County officials say programs such as Community Paramedicine help residents remain safely in their homes while reducing avoidable emergency department visits and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations..
“The work being done by LCPS every day — both in emergency response and through innovative community-based care — reflects a strong commitment to collaboration, patient-centred care, and supporting healthier communities across Lanark County,” said Brad Harrington, president and CEO of MRHA.
As part of Paramedic Services Week, LCPS will share staff stories and recognize the contributions of paramedics and support workers through social media campaigns throughout the week, beginning with paramedics Angela Wallace, Jason Tunks, and Emily Hine.