People feel a strong sense of safety and reassurance when they’re surrounded by Island EMS professionals. Some might even say it’s one of the safest places to be.
Recently, the Performing Arts Centre at UPEI filled with applause and appreciation as Island EMS and Medacom Atlantic (9-1-1 dispatch) hosted their first-ever awards and recognition ceremony.
The evening was all about celebrating the dedicated people who provide 24/7 care to Islanders in need in communities across PEI. More than 30 individuals were recognized for service milestones, clinical excellence, leadership, and community commitment. One of the highlights of the night was the 15-year service award presented to paramedic Jason Milligan.
Honours included everything from clinical excellence and community commitment to awards for stroke and cardiac arrest saves—each one reflecting the deep care and professionalism that EMS and Medacom Atlantic staff bring to their roles every day.
“These are not people who seek out praise,” said James Orchard, General Manager of Island EMS.
“They see people in their most critical and vulnerable state and do it without hesitation. This is the service that does not sleep. It is a privilege to work alongside them.”
He also acknowledged the loved ones who support EMS staff behind the scenes: “To the spouses, partners, and children, when your loved one is called for recognition, half of that applause is for you.”
Minister of Health and Wellness Mark McLane also took the stage to thank the staff at Island EMS and Medacom.
“Your extensive training and expertise allow you to handle emergency situations with skill and efficiency, while also providing emotional support to patients and families when they need it the most,” he said.
He also noted that the PEI Government is committed to supporting and enhancing the paramedic profession and will continue to invest in resources so paramedics can keep delivering high quality of care to Islanders.
For example, last spring, government brought in a new policy directive and together with Island EMS, introduced Community Paramedic Response Units (CPRUs). Since then, paramedics have responded to more than 1,000 low-urgency medical calls and completed over 275 follow-up visits with people in the community. This approach is helping Islanders receive high-quality care in their homes and reducing the number of emergency department visits.
"Congratulations to all the award recipients and thank you to every EMS and Medacom Atlantic team member for the care you provide every day," said Minister McLane.
Want to learn more about the work of Island EMS or how to become a trained paramedic? Visit Island EMS