Paramedics can now provide minor care in nursing homes

By Bob Joe - Published on Wednesday, 16 March 2011 21:24

Halifax government is attempting to prevent overcrowding in hospital emergency rooms by assigning paramedics to provide “minor emergency” care to seniors across 15 nursing homes.

Gertrude Clarke, a resident from Glades Lodge, recently fell out of her bed and instead of going to the hospital to receive stitches the paramedics came to her and provided the services.

"For paramedics it means using their skills and it frees up paramedics elsewhere to deal with more complex issues," said Health Minister Maureen MacDonald.