Examining an Alternate Care Pathway for Mental Health and Addiction Prehospital Emergencies in Ontario, Canada: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Paramedics in Ontario have largely been limited to transporting those with mental health or addiction (MHA)-related emergencies to the emergency department (ED). The ED has repeatedly been identified as a problematic and challenging setting for people with MHA needs. This article examines an innovative patient care model (PCM) established by the Middlesex–London Paramedic Service and its partners for specific MHA emergencies where patients were given options for care that included transportation to a Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Crisis Centre or information for support. Qualitative and quantitative data that were utilized for regular reporting to the Ministry were included in the analysis. The findings indicated that the goals of reducing pressures on EDs and paramedic services, enhancing paramedics’ ability to address MHA calls, and improving patient care experiences were met. This model improves patient autonomy and options for care, improves the means for addressing patients’ social determinants of health, and offers transportation to a non-medicalized facility.