Provincial funding strengthens paramedic-led care in Norfolk County

Norfolk County Paramedic Services is grateful to the Province of Ontario for its continued support of community-based healthcare. Recent funding announcements mark a significant investment in the future of paramedic-led care, helping residents access timely, compassionate services close to home. 

Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program 

The Ministry of Long-Term Care has provided temporary funding for Norfolk County’s Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care (CPLTC) program since 2021, with $964,600 allocated for the 2025/26 year. The Ministry of Long-Term Care, continuing their support, recently announced that the project will become permanent starting in 2026/27.  

Since its launch in 2021, the CPLTC program has served 1,108 patients and completed over 10,500 non-emergency appointments, including virtual and in-person visits. So far this year, paramedics have completed 3,158 appointments, helping reduce emergency calls and hospital pressures. 

The program focuses on proactive care to improve in-home support and help keep residents connected to care. 

Dedicated Offload Nurses program

To assist with patient offload at local hospitals, the Ministry of Health will provide up to $109,200 in one-time funding for the 2025/26 year under the Dedicated Offload Nurses Program. This funding may be used to staff the emergency department with additional nurses, paramedics, respiratory therapists, and physician assistants, helping reduce ambulance wait times and improve patient flow. 

This initiative supports Norfolk County’s commitment to integrated healthcare delivery and ensures paramedics can return to service more quickly, improving overall system efficiency and performance. 

Land Ambulance Services Grant

Norfolk County will receive up to a maximum of $6,088,150 for 2025/26 under the provincially funded Land Ambulance Services Grant (LASG) program, which provides 50 per cent funding for eligible costs, supporting core paramedic operations across the County. This represents an increase of $231,900 from the 2024/25 year.  

This funding helps maintain high-quality emergency response services and supports the County’s efforts to meet growing demand while continuing to innovate community care. 

Quotes 

Mayor Amy Martin 

“Norfolk County is grateful to the Province of Ontario for its continued investment in community-based healthcare. These programs strengthen our ability to deliver timely, compassionate care close to home, while easing pressures on hospitals and emergency services. This commitment ensures our residents receive the support they need and reflects the strong partnership between municipalities and the province.” 

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