Northwestern Polytechnic will be receiving a lifesaving $43,889.99 gift from the Regional EMS Foundation that will facilitate health professional training for years to come.
As the post-secondary continues to progress development a new Emergency Medical Responder certificate, learning community members are welcoming the news of a timely and impactful donation. The funding will facilitate the purchase of specialized training equipment at the polytechnic's Health Education Centre, which is conveniently located within the state-of-the-art Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.
"A key component of our work to expand local health care education offerings is establishing leading-edge learning environments where students can safely refine their knowledge and skills," says NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. "We are very grateful for the ongoing support from the Regional EMS Foundation and look forward to seeing this equipment in action once the program is fully operational."
The Foundation has been working with local first response organizations since its establishment in 2000 and has a proven track record of supporting the region.
"We are thrilled to partner with NWP on this vital initiative," says Cheryl Weaver, Chair Regional EMS Foundation. "Together, we're not just funding for EMR Educational Programming Equipment; we're igniting the future of emergency medical response education in our region. This collaboration is a testament in our shared commitment to advancing emergency care and empowering the next generation of responders."
With an anticipated start date of January 2025, the new Emergency Medical Responder program will equip students with vital expertise in ambulance and first response vehicle operation, emergency scene and patient assessment, and pre-hospital patient care.
The new equipment will be purchased in advance to prepare for the influx of learners who will benefit from the contemporary new teaching and training tools. This new investment will complement existing hands-on teaching lab components including various patient care manikins and a newly acquired ambulance simulation training environment.
"There are so many facets of the learning experience that help set students up for success in our communities," says Cindy Park, Vice-President External Relations. "We are extremely fortunate to work with local champions like the Regional EMS Foundation who understand the intricacies of the front-line and the value of our dedicated first responders."
Applications for Emergency Medical Responder are expected to open in the coming months. Please visit NWP.me/Responder for program updates.
