Pembroke — A paramedic could be stationed at the Emergency Department of the Pembroke Regional Hospital to ease some hospital pressures, but initial talks are being met with some resistance by hospital unions.

“We are hopeful there will be a re-negotiation either with these bargaining units or potentially engage in conversations with other community hospitals,” Director of Emergency Services Michael Nolan told a ZOOM meeting of county council recently. “The reality remains the hospital is challenged in its staffing, particularly in the Emergency Department (ED).”

He said he is hopeful all bargaining units can see their way to collaborating.

The report presented for Renfrew County council had a draft framework of how a paramedic could work at PRH to alleviate pressures at the ED, but Chief Nolan said for now talks have stalled due to concerns from the union at the hospital.

“It’s still a work in progress, but I think the agreement as it is stated in the report is a good framework to move forward, not only with PRH but potentially other parts of the health care system where paramedics can make a meaningful part of the healthcare system,” he said.

The move to have a paramedic in the ED began with a request from the hospital, he explained. Then discussions began with the paramedic union and paramedics, who were in favour of the move. The hospital unions for their part had more concerns.

“They have raised issues with this proposal,” he said. “From our perspective, we believe it is an important role for primary care paramedics to be able to contribute to an alternate means other than 911 paramedicine.”

Having a paramedic in the emergency department is a great way for paramedics to engage in an alternate method of care, he said.

Warden Debbie Robinson said other hospitals have expressed an interest in a similar type of program and could benefit.

“I am very aware the hospitals in Barry’s Bay and Deep River both struggle with staffing their emergency departments, so I would think they would welcome this opportunity,” she said.

Mayor Janice Tiedje of Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards said she was pleased to hear this offer was being made to all hospitals in the county.

“Who is paying for the paramedics while they are working in the hospital?” she asked. “Is it on the hospital’s bill or ours (County of Renfrew)?”

Chief Nolan said it will be paid entirely by the hospital. He said the offer was open to all hospitals.

“We are committed to working with all partners,” he said.

“We are not looking to replace anybody in the healthcare system, but we know there are significant gaps which are continuing to evolve negatively for them,” he said.