Improved Patient Transport with New Helipad at Paramedic Services Headquarters

York Region Paramedic Services has introduced a new helipad, in partnership with ORNGE, at Paramedic Services Headquarters in East Gwillimbury. The helipad, part of a one-year pilot project with the goal of becoming permanent, is improving timely transport of patients to trauma centres and centres with specialized care.

The pilot project allows Paramedic Services to have an ORNGE company-approved helipad, allowing their air ambulances to land safely at any time, facilitating the efficient transport of critical patients.

This project is particularly important following the closure of Buttonville Airport on November 30, 2023, which previously provided helipad access for ORNGE within York Region.

Since the closure of Buttonville, patients who needed transport to Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket had to land at Pearson International Airport or Billy Bishop on Toronto Island (only during daytime hours).

The introduction of the helipad marks a significant advancement in patient care in the Region, promising faster, safer and more efficient transport for patients.