Introduction

Early in 1995, a steering committee of Paramedics began the ambitious task of creating a legal and administrative structure for the Ontario Paramedic Association. This professional association is a registered 'not for profit' organization representing Paramedics across the province.

Since its formation, the OPA has worked to enhance the professional image of paramedics, to improve communications between paramedics, and to lobby for improvements to the standards of patient care.

The OPA Listserver, which is graciously provided by the SmartRisk Foundation, has been an important resource for members to share ideas, consult fellow paramedics, provide direction to the OPA Executive, and network.

The 'OPA News' is a bi-monthly newsletter published in Canadian Emergency News magazine and is sent to all members as part of their membership package.

In 2001, the OPA held its first provincial conference focusing on education & networking for paramedics. The OPA's 'Paramedicine' conferences have become the premier EMS conference in Ontario and continue to grow each year.

Here, the OPA website features a variety of informational pages for the general public, paramedics, and of course, our members.