Lanark County Paramedic Service chief awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal

The chief of Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS), Travis Mellema, has been honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal to recognize his significant contributions to the community. (LCPS/ handout)

The chief of Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS), Travis Mellema, has been honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal to recognize his significant contributions to the community.

LPSC said in a news release Wednesday Mellema has demonstrated a significant impact serving the community throughout his career in paramedicine, pointing out “tireless advocacy, healthcare initiatives, and commitment to both patient care and paramedic well-being.”

“I am deeply honoured to receive this medal, but the true recognition belongs to our entire team,” said Mellema.

Mellema’s leadership has introduced new measures to improve healthcare accessibility in Lanark County, allowing patients to reactive the care they need whenever and wherever. His initiatives have also helped paramedics to provide “advanced, compassionate, and community-focused care.”

The programs that were introduced throughout his leadership include community paramedicine and outreach programs, palliative care paramedicine, mental health and workforce safety advocacy, and public access defibrillator program.

“The dedication and innovation of our paramedics, leadership, and community partners have made these programs a reality. We remain committed to ensuring these essential services continue for the residents of Lanark County,” Mellema added.

Those programs “have been the most impactful change to healthcare in Lanark County in over four decades,” said Mary Pat Bingley, chair of the Lanark County Victim Services Board.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal is awarded to Canadians who leave a lasting impact in public service. It was established in 2023.