Regional council to discuss alternate solutions for paramedics dealing with mental health related calls

A presentation being made to regional council on Tuesday proposes an alternate destination clinic for paramedic services in the Region of Waterloo.

The proposal aims to prevent and reduce problematic substance use and enhance community safety.

Legislation that was introduced by the province in 2019 is cited in the report and stated that it would make it easier for mental health patients to be diverted to appropriate community based care.

The report being presented to council highlights that regional departments have been exploring responses to the mental health and addiction crisis, but a gap remains for paramedics caring for patients with mental health concerns.

The proposal cites a similar and successful operation in the London-Middlesex area, where mental health related calls were transferred to clinics instead of emergency departments, with walk-in options available to those not able or not wanting to call 9-1-1.

The 'Alternate Destination' model resulted in a nearly 50 per-cent decrease in ambulance off load times.

Regional councillor Jim Erb said he likes the results that have been shown in London.

“My guess is that council is going to be quite enthused about this,” Erb explained. “Understanding that we were trying to divert much of the work related to mental health to other places to take the pressure off the system.”

Erb added that if the proposal is approved, next steps include applying for provincial funding, putting a local working group together and building on what resources are needed.

Regional council members will discuss the proposal at Tuesday's 'Community and Health Services Committee' meeting at 4:00pm.