Perth County’s Mobile Integrated Health program completes more than 5,100 patient visits over past year

By Galen Simmons

Perth County Paramedic Services’ Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) program continues to help vulnerable residents access health care while reducing pressure on emergency services, with more than 5,100 patient visits completed over the past year.

Deputy chief of mobile integrated health Debbie Hunter presented an update on the program to Perth County council Nov. 5, highlighting its accomplishments between Oct. 1, 2025, and Oct. 1, 2026, as well as priorities for the coming year.

“Since the program began, MIH has become an integral part of our local health system,” Hunter said. “Our role continues to focus on connecting residents with the right care at the right time in the right place.”

Over the reporting period, community paramedics completed 5,146 visits involving 1,217 individuals, along with 147 wellness checks involving 98 individuals that could otherwise have resulted in calls to 911. The program also recorded 327 emergency calls involving 99 clients, including 38 initiated by community paramedics who identified emergencies while visiting patients.

Other statistics highlight the range of services provided, including 2,267 referrals to community partners, 6,817 vital-sign assessments, 1,208 blood draws for homebound patients and 1,853 medication-management interactions.

Of those enrolled in the program, 56 per cent were 65 or older, while 41 per cent were between 25 and 64. Stratford residents accounted for 59 per cent of clients, followed by North Perth at 17 per cent, St. Marys at 11 per cent, West Perth at eight per cent, Perth East at four per cent and Perth South at one per cent.

Hunter explained the program takes a proactive approach to health care, identifying potential problems before they become emergencies and connecting residents with appropriate services.

“Our value isn't just measured by how many calls we prevent. It's also measured by the care we provide, the barriers we remove and the support we offer before a situation becomes a crisis,” she said.

Looking ahead, Hunter said expanding palliative-care services will be a priority, with paramedics receiving additional training and the introduction of symptom-relief kits to better support patients and families receiving end-of-life care at home.

The program will also continue its partnership with Stratford Social Services through the Access Resource Connection (ARC) program, which combines health care with housing and outreach supports for vulnerable residents. People experiencing homelessness currently represent half of ARC's caseload.

However, the report notes provincial funding for 2027-2028 remains uncertain. Without increased funding to offset rising costs, the service may need to consider reductions.

Warden Dean Trentowsky praised Hunter and her team for their work.

“It's an invaluable service, and our communities in Perth County are very grateful to have you and the staff lead this on our behalf,” Trentowsky said.

Council unanimously approved the report for presentation to the Municipal Shared Services Committee Dec. 17.