DTSSAB EMS Officially Rebranding as DTSSAB Paramedic Services

Name change reflects evolving role of paramedics in Ontario’s modern healthcare system

The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) is pleased to announce that, effective May 31, 2025, its Emergency Medical Services division will be officially renamed DTSSAB Paramedic Services. The change marks a significant step forward in aligning with the evolving standards of paramedicine across Ontario and recognizing the expanded roles paramedics now play in community health, while continuing the delivery of exceptional quality 911 service.

This announcement comes during National Paramedic Services Week, which runs from May 18 to 25, and celebrates the theme “WeCare. For Everyone.” The rebranding not only honours the essential and diverse work of paramedics but also reaffirms DTSSAB’s commitment to community-based and preventative care.

“For nearly two decades, DTSSAB EMS has served our communities with unwavering dedication,” said DTSSAB Board Chair, Derek Mundle, “As the nature of paramedic work continues to grow beyond emergency response, this new name—DTSSAB Paramedic Services—better reflects the full scope of the care our paramedics provide every day.”

Since its inception in 2005, DTSSAB EMS—often referred to locally as Timiskaming EMS-SMU—has provided both Primary Care and Community Paramedicine services 24/7/365. Today, paramedics are not only responding to emergencies but are also delivering care to vulnerable populations in non-emergency settings, helping reduce hospital visits and improving overall community health outcomes.

“As Ontario moves forward with healthcare transformation and greater integration through Ontario Health Teams, the role of paramedics continues to expand,” said DTSSAB Chief Administrative Officer, Mark Stewart, “This rebranding ensures our services are clearly aligned with that future while maintaining the exceptional emergency response the community relies on.”

Importantly, the name change will not impact core services, and it comes with no additional cost. All branding updates will be implemented as part of routine equipment replacement and procurement already accounted for in the operational budget.

“Our paramedics have always gone above and beyond, whether it’s responding to a 911 call or supporting someone in their home with preventative care,” said Chief of Paramedic Services, Sarah Salvis, “This new name honours the professionalism, versatility, and compassion that define modern paramedicine. We care—for everyone.”

For more information, please contact:
communications@dtssab.com

Quotes:

“For nearly two decades, DTSSAB EMS has served our communities with unwavering dedication,. As the nature of paramedic work continues to grow beyond emergency response, this new name—DTSSAB Paramedic Services—better reflects the full scope of the care our paramedics provide every day.” DTSSAB Board Chair – Derek Mundle

“As Ontario moves forward with healthcare transformation and greater integration through Ontario Health Teams, the role of paramedics continues to expand, This rebranding ensures our services are clearly aligned with that future while maintaining the exceptional emergency response the community relies on.” DTSSAB Chief Administrative Officer – Mark Stewart

“Our paramedics have always gone above and beyond, whether it’s responding to a 911 call or supporting someone in their home with preventative care. This new name honours the professionalism, versatility, and compassion that define modern paramedicine. We care—for everyone.” Paramedic Service Chief – Sarah Salvis

Quick Facts:

-       DTSSAB Paramedic Services team is comprised of 68 paramedics and covers 13,247 square kms.
-       Paramedic Services has been underneath the umbrella of DTSSAB for 25 years.
-       Key 2024 data highlights:
o   7,316 dispatch calls attended—an 11.3% increase from 2023
o   3,901 in-home visits through Community Paramedicine
o   415 Walk-In Wellness Clinics held