Kawartha Lakes releases 2025 Paramedic Service performance results

Kawartha Lakes – A new report, presented March 10 to the Committee of the Whole, highlights strong overall performance by the Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service in 2025, demonstrating that our local paramedics continue to provide reliable, high-quality care while responding to more calls each year. 

The annual Operational Key Performance Indicators (O-KPIs) report provides an overview of service demand, response performance, system capacity, finances, and workforce trends. Key highlights from the report include: 

Growing and changing demand 

• Paramedics responded to over 14,000 calls in 2025, about one call every 37 minutes. 

• The new Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS), which launched in March 2025, is helping 911 call takers better assess patient urgency and prioritize calls. This means paramedics are sent to the right calls at the right time, and fewer calls are classified as emergent when they don’t require that level of response. 

Stronger system stability 

• Unit Hour Utilization (UHU), a key measure of ambulance availability, remained stable even as call numbers increased. 

• Code Zero incidents (periods with no available ambulances) dropped by just over 90% compared to 2023 thanks to changes supported by Council, including additional ambulances and improved call triage. 

Working with neighbouring communities 

• More accurate call prioritization has reduced the number of ambulances responding into Kawartha Lakes from neighbouring municipalities, helping to lower associated costs. 

Newer vehicles and lower emissions 

• Newer ambulances helped lower fuel and maintenance costs. 

• Replacing older vehicles also reduced carbon emissions, and the service continues exploring new technology through initiatives such as a hydrogen fuel cell pilot project.  

Financial performance 

• The cost to operate an ambulance per hour remained stable compared to the previous year. 

• Overall spending remains in line with municipal averages across Ontario.  

Paramedic support 

• Four new full-time paramedics were added in 2025, improving system capacity. 

• Paramedics completed regular training to maintain and advance their skills. 

• An increase in injury-related time off will be a focus for review in 2026.  

These results align with the Paramedic Service Master Plan.  

”The 2025 results reflect the commitment and professionalism of our paramedics and support staff who serve the community every day,” shares Paramedic Chief Sara Johnston. “As we look ahead, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead of us, like the new Paramedic Headquarters beginning construction this year, and expanding wellness supports for our staff. Together, these investments will ensure we continue delivering strong, reliable service for our growing community." 

The full report is available here: Paramedic Service Operational Key Performance Indicators 

To learn more about the Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service, visit the Ambulance and Paramedic Service page.