February 1, 2013 at 3:00 PM
Andy McCallum, President and CEO of Ornge announced yesterday that the province of Ontario has approved an increase number of paramedics to its Thunder Bay base. This increase will result in a third team of paramedics to the base; one rotor and two fixed-wing crews.
"On behalf of our members, I would like to thank Ontario Health Minister Deb Matthews and Ornge for the announcement to staff all three aircraft with paramedic crews 24/7," said Chuck Telky, CAW Local 2002 Chairperson. "This will increase the level of care for residents of northern Ontario."
This commitment will make Thunder Bay the largest single air paramedic base in Ontario and will allow Ornge members to respond to more on-scene calls using the helicopter.
Jamie Ross, CAW Local 2002 President commented on yesterday’s announcement saying, "I am pleased to hear of the third paramedic team that will provide dedicated medical assistance to the residents of Ontario by our Ornge members. This assurance by Ornge and the provincial government is very positive as these members provide a vital role in Ontario’s health care system."
CAW Local 2002 members at Ornge are responsible for patient care and medical transfers. Ornge operates the largest and most sophisticated program of aero-medical transport in North America. Its operations currently serve the 12.5 million residents of the province of Ontario.
For more information, please contact:
Ashley Watkins - CAW Local 2002 Executive Assistant