Written By David Gomez
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - A new system aimed at improving how emergency medical calls are prioritized and dispatched is set to be introduced across Middlesex County later this year, following years of advocacy by local officials.
During the March 24 council meeting, Adam Bennett, Director of Paramedic Services, outlined the upcoming implementation of the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS), describing it as “a really important evolution in how ambulances are dispatched within Ontario.”
The system, which is used internationally, replaces the current dispatch model with a more structured, medically guided approach. Bennett explained that MPDS relies on detailed questioning and evidence-based algorithms to assess the severity of each 911 call, allowing dispatchers to assign response priorities based on patient condition rather than other factors.
“This then allows MLPS to be able to create more complex deployment and response plans that will allow us to better utilize the resources and the ambulances that we have in the community,” he said.
Under the new system, paramedic services expect to see fewer unnecessary high-priority responses, helping ensure ambulances remain available for life-threatening emergencies. Bennett noted that some calls currently treated as urgent may be reclassified, reducing the need for lights-and-sirens responses and limiting situations where vehicles are pulled away from their communities.
He also pointed to operational benefits, including fewer vehicle movements, improved availability of ambulances, and potential reductions in overtime, as paramedics are more likely to complete shifts on time.
The transition will also involve coordination with municipal partners, including fire departments, which often respond alongside paramedics. Bennett said existing relationships remain strong and discussions are underway to review how tiered response agreements may adapt under the new system.
Council heard that the launch of MPDS in the London Central Ambulance Communication Centre has been moved up to October 2026, about six months earlier than originally planned, following discussions between local officials and the province.
Council voted to receive the report for information as preparations for the rollout continue.
