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

DTSSAB Passes 2025 Budget

/

On January 22, 2025, the District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) approved its 2025 budget, totaling $47.1 million, including a municipal share of $7.58 million. This represents a 5.42% increase in municipal apportionment compared to 2024. To help mitigate this increase, the Board approved a $350,000 withdrawal from the working fund reserve, down from $463,000 in 2024.

In 2024, the DTSSAB returned $800,000 to municipalities from the working fund reserve. This decision was made as part of a planned approach to align the reserve with provincial regulations and established guidelines while providing financial support to municipalities. Together with the $350,000 withdrawal in 2025, the total municipal support from the working fund reserve over the two years is $1.61 million. These decisions reflect the Board's proactive fiscal oversight in balancing the DTSSAB's service delivery with the needs of our municipal partners.

Like many organizations and municipalities across the district, the DTSSAB is responding to financial pressures in 2025. Key factors contributing to the increased municipal share include:

  • Provincial funding changes: New provincial funding models in Children’s Services and Ontario Works have shifted more administrative costs to municipalities.

  • Rising costs: Inflation, increasing costs for goods and services and major capital investments like ambulance replacements continue to pressure budgets.

DTSSAB Board Chair, Derek Mundle states, “The approval of the 2025 budget reflects the Board’s commitment to responsible fiscal stewardship while ensuring the delivery of essential services such as Housing Services, Ontario Works, Children’s Services, Emergency Medical Services, and Community Paramedicine. Despite significant financial pressures, including rising costs and provincial funding changes, we have taken a balanced approach to support our municipal partners while maintaining the quality and accessibility of the services our residents depend on. By strategically utilizing our working fund reserve, we continue to uphold our mandate and provide stability during challenging times. The Board appreciates the DTSSAB team's commitment to its mission of delivering programs and services through effective use of available resources in the best interest of the individuals they support.”

About DTSSAB

The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) is a service system manager established under the District Social Services Administration Boards Act. The DTSSAB is responsible for delivering key social services on behalf of the province and oversees the administration and coordination of essential programs, including Housing Services, Ontario Works, Children’s Services, Emergency Medical Services, and Community Paramedicine.

Media Contact:

communications@dtssab.com   

Canada Post Service Disruption Update

/
 

The ongoing Canada Post mail disruption may affect how some of our clients and tenants receive notices or payments.  The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) is implementing special procedures to ensure continuity of service until further notice.

We are here to support you with alternate options to avoid any delays.

Important Updates for Our Clients and Tenants

For Housing Tenants

We encourage all tenants to sign up for Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) to make paying your seamless and secure. PAD lets you pay your rent directly and automatically through your bank account. Rent will be paid on time without using mail services.

Avoid Delays… Sign up for PAD today!

For Third-Party Payees

For Ontario Works Clients:

Access important updates and payments details quickly and securely with MyBenefits

MyBenefits allows you to view your statements and notices online and avoid any delays caused by the postal disruption.

 Sign up for MyBenefits now.

Want to Stay Informed About the Postal Disruption?

While DTSSAB has alternate measures in place, we understand you may wish to stay updated on the status of the Canada Post service disruption.

You can find the latest news and updates here:

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to address these challenges.