The Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) is celebrating a major milestone this year: 25 years of dedicated service to the residents and communities of Lanark County.
Since its formal establishment in 2000, LCPS has evolved into far more than an emergency response service. Today, the Service plays a critical role in community health through mobile outreach, preventative care, and support for patients with complex needs.
“This milestone is about more than years — it’s about the people we’ve helped, the communities we’ve supported, and the growth of our profession,” said LCPS Chief Travis Mellema. “Our paramedics have risen to every challenge, expanding their skills and scope in ways that continue to improve the health of our region.”
Chief Mellema presented a commemorative report to County Council this week, recognizing the Service’s impact and the people behind its success. Some of the highlights include:
· More than 2,100 clients supported through Community Paramedicine
· Active participation in the Trillium Gift of Life tissue referral program, which provincially has seen over 1,600 referrals from participating services since 2017
· Involvement in the External Violence Against Paramedics (EVAP) study to improve first responder safety
· Ongoing commitment to staff wellness, peer support, and professional development
“Lanark County Paramedic Service plays an essential role in the health and wellbeing of our communities,” said Brad Harrington, President and CEO of the Mississippi River Health Alliance. “The evolution of this service over the past 25 years is extraordinary — from emergency response to preventative care and mobile outreach, LCPS continues to lead with compassion, innovation, and professionalism. We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with them.”
While the anniversary is officially in the fall, LCPS wanted to highlight it in May to coincide with Paramedic Services Week (May 18–24), a national celebration of paramedics and the essential role they play across the country. This year’s theme, “We Care. For Everyone,” perfectly captures the mission and values at the heart of LCPS.
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