File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Liam Verster / Vernon Matters

B.C. Paramedics

New paramedic staffing models rolled out in B.C.

Nov 9, 2023 | 1:56 PM

VICTORIA — British Columbia’s health ministry has introduced three new staffing models aimed at is improving ambulance service in the province.

At a news conference in Victoria Thursday, Nov. 9, Health Minister Adrian Dix announced the new models, which will replace the scheduled-on-call (SOC) system in 60 communities.

“The first model is the 24/7 Alpha model, which provides more reliable emergency health services. The 21 communities will have paramedics in station and on duty three times more than the current SOC model. It is, as the saying goes, 24/7,” Dix stated.

“We have a second model for communities even smaller than (those using the 24/7 model), which is the Mixed Shift model, which provides staff with more flexibility than the 24/7 model in smaller communities. Twenty-five communities are moving to this model, they’ll have staff on duty in the station twice as often as now.

“The third model is the Kilo model, which will have a unit chief at the station. The 14 communities transitioning to this model will have more flexible options.”

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Dix did not state which communities would implement the new models aside from saying the Kilo model would be used for the smallest communities, Mixed Shift would be in place in the medium-sized municipalities, and the 24/7 model would be in place for larger cities and communities.

Dix said the new models will allow paramedics to still provide the critical care needed in their communities, but will also meet their own needs.

“Paramedics will no longer be required to work or be available to work for 72 straight hours,” Dix said.

“There will be better shifts that will allow paramedics to have a work-life balance and will help better ensure our communities are covered, especially in the evenings.”

The new models were developed in collaboration with B.C. Emergency Health Services, Ambulance Paramedics and Dispatchers of B.C., CUPE 873, and First Nations and municipal leaders.