Æ

Newsroom

Lanark County Paramedic Service Marks 25 Years of Lifesaving Excellence

May 08, 2025

LCPS celebrates milestone and prepares to unveil new crest during Paramedic Services Week

Montague, Ontario – 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.

As part of the celebrations, LCPS will also unveil a new crest and refreshed visual identity on Tuesday, May 21. The new crest was designed in collaboration with Perth-based artist Jaana Brett, and reflects LCPS’s continued evolution, connection to community, and commitment to delivering exceptional care.

Additional details will be released about the new crest and its meaning during Paramedic Services Week. Follow along at www.mrha.ca or on MRHA social media as we celebrate the incredible contributions of our paramedics past, present, and future.

-30-

Media Contact:
Caitlin O’Hara, Communications Lead
Mississippi River Health Alliance

613-621-9638
caohara@mrha.ca

About Lanark County Paramedic Service

Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) provides essential pre-hospital emergency medical care to residents and visitors across Lanark County. Operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, LCPS paramedics are the first point of contact for many in emergency situations, responding to a wide range of medical and trauma-related calls. With a strong commitment to innovation, professionalism, and community partnerships, LCPS is dedicated to enhancing the health and safety of the region. For more information, visit www.lanarkcountyparamedicservice.ca.

About the Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA)

The Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) was formed in 2016 to formalize and strengthen collaboration between the Almonte General Hospital Corporation—which includes Almonte General Hospital (AGH), Fairview Manor (FVM), and the Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS)—and the Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital Corporation (CPDMH). This partnership delivers seamless, high-quality healthcare that addresses the evolving needs of local communities. Together, the MRHA is building an integrated healthcare system that provides comprehensive care close to home, enhancing access and improving health outcomes throughout the region. For more information visit www.MRHA.ca.