Fourteen new Extended Care Paramedics (ECPs) have been deployed across the state following the successful completion of their training program at the NSW Ambulance State Operations Centre.
Extended Care Paramedics are paramedics already registered with NSW Ambulance who complete additional training and bring with them a diverse range of clinical backgrounds and experience.
After undertaking a 10-week intensive education program, which includes two weeks clinical placement on the road and at a hospital, the new ECPs will commence on road as independent clinicians from next week.
“Our Extended Care Paramedics are a prime example of how NSW Ambulance continues to innovate to deliver better care for our patients. ECPs provide options that keep people well and supported in the community,” said NSW Ambulance Chief Executive, Dr Dominic Morgan.
“This new intake of Extended Care Paramedics have shown outstanding commitment, skill and compassion throughout their training, and these qualities will make a real difference to the people of NSW.”
The class of 14 new ECPs includes June Munday, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for five years most recently in Central West NSW, and Peter Wilson, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for more than 25 years, who is trained as a special operations and rescue paramedic.
“The part of the job I love the most is patient care, spending time with people and building a real rapport. Becoming an Extended Care Paramedic means I can do more of that while giving patients safe alternatives to hospital when it’s appropriate,” said Ms Munday.
“This role is about empowering patients with information and options, while continuing to grow my own skills.”
“It’s rewarding to know we can provide the right care in the right setting and make a genuine difference in people’s lives,” she said.
“After more than 20 years as a paramedic, the knowledge I’ve gained through this course has been incredible. ECPs take a broad, holistic approach to patient care that really complements the work I’ve done across special operations,” said Mr Wilson.
“I’m looking forward to applying these skills in my local community and working closely with allied health providers to deliver care that keeps them safe and supported outside hospital where appropriate.”
This marks the 26th Extended Care Paramedic (ECP) course delivered by NSW Ambulance since the program began in 2007.
ECPs are now based across metropolitan Sydney, the Illawarra, Central Coast, Inner Hunter and, through a pilot program, on the North Coast. They can also be deployed to areas of greatest need, as demonstrated during the recovery phase following severe weather events on the Mid North Coast and in Hunter New England earlier this year.
“Extended Care Paramedics play a vital role in giving patients more options for safe and appropriate treatment outside of busy emergency departments,” said Health Minister, Ryan Park.
“I want to congratulate this new class of Extended Care Paramedics and thank them for their dedication to delivering quality care for people in their time of need.
“More staff, lower response times, better patient outcomes – it’s as simple as that,” he said.
