Paramedics are viewing their reclassification from non-medical to medical science professionals as a victory.
Reclassification Committee Chair Joel Mattatall says this is a fight that has been ongoing for around two years now, “This provides recognition to paramedics for the valuable contributions they provide to their communities each and every day as medical professionals. It also moves paramedics into a different bargaining environment.”
Mattatall says this reclassification ensures paramedics have a voice at the bargaining table.
“This isn’t the total solution, but it is a big piece of that, I think if we are going to build on anything, we need to make sure the foundation is strong and I think properly classifying paramedics is that strong foundation.”
He adds, “Where government is now placing us. We are along side other health care professionals who possess college level education and specialized training which links up with the exactly the level of training and education and scope of practice that paramedics possess.”
Paramedics will officially be reclassified on April 1st, 2020.
