Chief Krauter discussed the report and the data analysis that was undertaken. He noted that the overall call volumes had increased, but there was a slight decrease in non-urgent calls that contribute to offload delays. He indicated that could possibly be attributed to several factors including the implementation of programs, such as the Vulnerable Patient Navigator, the Community Paramedic Clinic Program and also the dedicated offload nurse initiative. He noted that further analysis would be performed over time, but initial results indicate that there could be some small improvements on the horizon.
Chief Krauter discussed the real time call analysis tool, which allows for better planning and allocation of resources.
Mr. Paterson questioned whether other emergency services in Ontario experience the same types of issues with offloading patients? Chief Krauter indicated that it was a common problem in most regions of Ontario.
Mr. McNamara questioned whether consideration was given to the call volumes that were related to the severe flu season and calls that were associated exclusively to that? Chief Krauter indicated that although that data was not analysed separately, it would be considered as a comparison tool for a future analysis, once a greater comparison period were available.
Discussion took place with regard to funding for the dedicated offload nurse program, as well as with regard to the changes to the Ambulance Act. It was noted that the funding for the dedicated offload nurse was in place until April of 2019 after which, nothing further was guaranteed. He explained that changes had been made with regard to the Ambulance Act would take time to implement, considering the time required to establish standards based on the Ambulance Act Regulations and development of new practices, procedures and operating standards at the EWEMS level based on these changes.