A new coordinator position and medical oversight will support firefighters in receiving the training they need to provide emergency medical response to people in PEI.
Government recently funded a full-time coordinator position for the Medical First Responder (MFR) Program. The position will be based at Island EMS and provide training and coordination support for the MFR program across the province.
“Many of our Island firefighters are trained medical first responders, providing immediate, sometimes lifesaving, medical care to patients until paramedics arrive at the scene. This new position will help strengthen this important program to ensure we continue to provide safe, logistical and coordinated emergency care in our communities.”
— Minister of Health and Wellness Mark McLane
Government is also supporting the integration of medical oversight within the MFR program. The Emergency Health Services provincial medical director will provide clinical support and ensure treatment protocols align with Island EMS paramedic clinical care practices.
“We are pleased with the results of these renewed efforts to support the MFR Program. This is an example of where three partners came together and worked cooperatively towards enhancing public safety.”
— Greg McCormick, Director for Queens County, PEI Firefighters Association.
Additionally, the MFR Program is receiving funding for epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) to treat anaphylaxis, a severe life-threatening allergic reaction. It occurs when a person with allergies is exposed to a particular protein material (antigen) such as peanuts, nuts, eggs, fish, insect bites or medication. Epinephrine is the primary drug that is used to treat anaphylaxis.