Rapid Response, Real Impact: Improving Emergency Care in the Byward Market

Institution: University of Ottawa

CSWB plan priority / Ottawa's 2023-2026 Term of Council priority: Integrated and simpler systems

Project Term: Winter 2025

Course Code: MED4101

Professor(s): N/A

Group Member(s): Hollie Davies, Catherine Song, Hiba Alami Chentoufi

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Objective(s): The evaluation of this pilot project aims to:

1. Support Ottawa Paramedic Service staff in assessing the impact and effectiveness of the PRU.

2. Develop a comprehensive scope document that can be shared with key stakeholders and other paramedic services to guide the potential implementation of similar initiatives.

3. Identify opportunities for program improvement by analyzing data trends, conducting an environmental scan, and recommending strategic adjustments for both the current deployment and potential future expansion.

Deliverables include:

1. ByWard Market ACP PRU Pilot Project Scope Document, which includes:

   • Environmental Scan: Review of comparable paramedic-led initiatives in North America and internationally.

   • Data Analysis:

     • Quantitative: Efficiency metrics such as unit time-on-task, call diversion rates, response times.

     • Qualitative: Insights aligned with the Quadruple Aim of Healthcare (patient experience, provider experience, cost reduction, and improved health outcomes).

   • Recommendations for Program Improvement

2. Future Deployment Assessment

   • Based on data analysis and potential staff interviews, recommendations will be made regarding geographic expansion to other high-demand areas where similar programs could be beneficial.

Potential for Impact: 

Short-Term Impact (Immediate Benefits)

1. Reduced Emergency Service Strain – The ACP PRU provides rapid response and on-site care, decreasing unnecessary ambulance transports and hospital overcrowding. 2. Improved Care for Vulnerable Populations – Targeted interventions, including naloxone distribution, resource education, and alternative care pathways, enhance patient outcomes. 3. Faster Response Times – Prioritizing high-acuity calls (e.g., cardiac arrests, opioid overdoses) ensures timely, life-saving interventions. 4. Enhanced Interagency Collaboration – Strengthened coordination between paramedics, social services, and healthcare providers creates a more integrated support system.

Long-Term Impact (Sustained Benefits & Expansion Potential)

1. More Efficient Emergency Resource Allocation – Data-driven insights help optimize deployment strategies, improving overall paramedic system efficiency. 2. Expansion of Alternative Care Pathways – The PRU model supports long-term diversion programs, reducing emergency department (ED) reliance. 3. Scalability to Other High-Need Areas – Successful implementation can serve as a template for future PRU expansions in other high-demand regions. 4. Improved Community Health Outcomes – Long-term engagement with at-risk populations can reduce preventable emergencies, fostering better health equity and accessibility. 5. Cost Savings for Healthcare & Emergency Services – Lower hospital admissions and ambulance call volumes translate to financial sustainability for the healthcare system.