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Nipigon Paramedic Manager Receives Emergency Medical Services Medal

October 30, 2003 - Paul Charbonneau, Eastern Region Manager for Superior North Emergency Medical Services has been awarded the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal. Announced by the Chancellory of Honours of the Governor General, Paul received the medal Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at a ceremony in Niagara Falls. The medal is awarded to those with over twenty years service in EMS who have made significant contributions to their communities and to their profession.

Paul started his EMS career in 1975 with the Department of Ambulance Services in Toronto. After 14 years he moved to Beaverton and then took his first management job in Moosonee. Paul spent seven years in the remote community. He developed innovative retention programs for paramedics, started the college paramedic program directly in the community for Northern residents. During this time, he participated in the study of Wilderness Responses issues and chaired the only combined land and air ambulance utilization committee in Ontario. He was also chosen to sit on the Cochrane District Health Council Emergency Health Services sub-committee. Elected as a director of the Ontario Ambulance Operators Association, he became involved in Rural and Remote committee issues.

In 1997, Paul moved to Nipigon and continued to pursue his interest in EMS. He set up the local Lifeline program, became a service instructor and served the community as a member of the Rotary Club of Nipigon. In 2001, Paul was elected president of the Northwest Chapter of the Ontario Paramedic Association. In 2002, he was elected as director to the provincial Ontario Paramedic Association. In his new capacity, he was determined to double the membership of the OPA and set out on a week long road trip through the north to double the membership. In just three months of effort, he had succeeded.

In August 2002, Paul took the position of Regional Manager, Eastern Region Superior North EMS. In his new capacity, he continues to exhibit strong EMS leadership and a commitment to improving patient services. During the recent move from contract to direct operation, Paul personally visited each station repeatedly to talk to staff and alleviate their concerns. His dedication played a major role in ensuring a smooth transition.