Recognizing the Evolving Role of Paramedics During Paramedic Services Week 2026
May 20, 2026
Lanark County, Ontario – May 17–23 marks Paramedic
Services Week 2026, an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedicated
paramedics and staff who provide care and support to communities across Lanark
County every day.
This year’s provincial theme, “Better Care Starts Here,”
highlights the evolving and increasingly important role paramedics play across
Ontario’s healthcare system — from emergency response and critical patient care
to prevention, outreach, community paramedicine, and collaboration with
healthcare and public safety partners.
“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. “Whether
responding to emergencies, supporting vulnerable residents through community
programs, or working alongside our healthcare partners, our team continues to
make a significant impact every single day.”
Lanark County Paramedics respond to over 16,000 patient
calls annually across a large and growing geographic area, providing timely
emergency medical care while continuing to expand innovative community-based
programs focused on prevention, early intervention, and patient-centered care.
Programs such as Community Paramedicine continue to help
residents remain safe and supported in their homes while reducing avoidable
emergency department visits and improving access to care for vulnerable
populations.
“Paramedics
play an essential and increasingly integrated role within our healthcare
system,” said Brad Harrington, President and CEO of the Mississippi River
Health Alliance. “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-centered care, and supporting healthier
communities across Lanark County.”
As part of Paramedic Services Week, LCPS will also be
highlighting staff stories and recognizing the contributions of paramedics and
support staff throughout the week on social media.
Lanark County Warden Richard Kidd has officially proclaimed
May 17–23, 2026 as Paramedic Services Week in Lanark County.
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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.