News release

Paramedics Honoured for Years of Service

Health and Wellness

The province presented 47 Emergency Health Services paramedics long service awards today, May 22.

In total, the paramedics have nearly 1,200 total years in service to their communities.

Communities Culture and Heritage Minister David Wilson, a former paramedic, handed out the awards on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister Maureen MacDonald.

"Nova Scotia has one of the best ground ambulance systems in North America. We wouldn't have this great distinction if not for the tireless dedication of our paramedics," said Mr. Wilson. "They are the faces of calm experience when most people are in their greatest time of need. It's important to take time to recognize their valuable contribution to health care and community safety."

The Paramedic Long Service Award is based on years of service to Nova Scotia by paramedics and others who provide emergency health services. The award is based on five-year increments of service of 20 years and more.

Paramedics with 20 years of service receive a medal for their dress uniform. For each additional five-year increment, they have a service bar pinned on the medal.

In addition to providing advanced levels of emergency response and care, paramedics provide primary care in many communities in partnership with health-care professionals, such as family physicians and nurses. This includes immunizations, assessment and patient care after discharge, and wellness checks.

Senior citizens in Halifax Regional Municipality have on-site access to extended care paramedics in nursing homes, and paramedics play a vital role in providing 24-hour access to emergency care in the province's Collaborative Emergency Centres.