Jodi and I met with Health Minister Theresa Oswald on Tuesday, November 21st. This was our first official meeting with Minister Oswald since her appointment to the Health portfolio in late September. The Deputy Minister of Health, Arlene Wilgosh, was also present.
We used this opportunity primarily to introduce the Paramedic Association of Manitoba to the Minister. We outlined our role as a professional association and advised Minister Oswald of our intent to continue in efforts to pursue self-regulatory status for our profession. Other topics of discussion included the status of the EMS Framework and potential benefits associated with a more centralized management of all Manitoba ambulance and paramedic resources.
During the course of our 40 minute meeting, the Minister assured us that EMS will continue to be a priority for her department. In terms of significant commitment, the Minister acknowledged and approved of our request to participate in discussions related to possible Health Professions Legislation and acknowledged the need to improve system efficiencies and consistency. She also indicated to us that she would be receiving a more detailed briefing on emergency medical services from her department staff in early December, following which she would initiate further consultation with our Association.
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