The District of Muskoka is partnering with Queen’s University to conduct operational research into Paramedic Services.
During the Aug. 20 council meeting, JC Gilbert, chief of paramedic services and emergency management, presented a report stating the research will help response performance and future service demand.
In the report, Gilbert said the District will need to enter into a Data Sharing Agreement with Queen’s University, allowing Paramedic Services to conduct further analysis beyond its current long-term planning work.
The report states that the research project will examine three key areas of Paramedic Services operations.
These include updated demand forecasts that account for population growth and changing call patterns, as well as the impact of an aging population on future transport demand. The project will also examine the timing and location of calls to identify current service pressure points.
Staff said the analysis is expected to provide the District with additional insight into Paramedic Services operations, support the employee’s studies, and complement the District’s existing planning work.
As a result, council approved the motion and directed staff to establish a Data Sharing Agreement that outlines requirements for the proper use and disclosure of data in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.
The report states that any data shared with the student and Queen’s University will be anonymized, with all personal and identifying information removed before disclosure.
