Workers in Paramedic Services perform lifesaving work every day. Highly trained dispatchers are the first point of contact in a medical emergency – analyzing the situation, providing critical instructions, and coordinating ambulance response. Paramedics are the first responders who deliver high-quality advanced life support at the scene. Logistics and support staff work behind the scenes to make sure every paramedic has the medical supplies and equipment they need when they go on call.
That work takes resources and funding – but for far too long, it’s been taken for granted by employers and governments.
The results are dire. 1 in every 2.5 paramedics have experienced physical or psychological workplace injury or trauma while nearly a quarter of dispatchers have experienced PTSD.
The status quo is failing. CUPE is calling on provincial and municipal governments to take immediate action to end this crisis.