Paramedic perspectives of community paramedicine and quality of work life in Northern Ontario, Canada

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the perspectives of paramedics regarding community paramedicine (CP) and their quality of work life (QoWL) in Northern Ontario, Canada. Paramedics from eight emergency medical services (EMS) were recruited to participate in an online survey that was distributed to them via REDCap software. The survey contained several CP-specific questions and the 23-Item Work-Related Quality of Life Scale. The findings indicated that the vast majority of paramedics are in favour of CP, however repeated service interruptions, a lack of training, and patient data tracking were identified as issues that should be mitigated to ensure successful CP program development in the future. There was a statistically significant relationship between paramedic participation in CP and QoWL. These findings have implications for EMS employers and decision-makers related to the effectiveness of CP program activities, and they provide emerging insight into the relationship between QoWL and CP in Northern Ontario.