P.E.I. paramedics offer palliative care in people's homes

A new program begins this week on P.E.I. that allows paramedics to provide palliative care to patients with pain and symptom management at home after hours.

Up until now, at-home palliative patients had limited access to after-hours support for pain and anxiety. As a result, many would call 911 and then be admitted to hospital.

"Most patients prefer to receive palliative care in their own home with their family close by, and this new service will allow more patients to receive care at home," Health and Wellness minister Doug Currie said in a news release.

"Paramedics are highly trained and able to work in a variety of settings. Having them deliver the service is an effective use of health care resources and enables our paramedics to practice to the full scope of their knowledge and training."

All Island paramedics have received the specialized clinical training and education to provide end-of-life care at home.

To be eligible, patients must register with the Provincial Integrated Palliative Care Program.

So far, 170 palliative patients have registered with the program.