New Brunswick, Canada, is facing a significant shortage of paramedics, with 300 positions currently unfilled, representing nearly 30% of the ideal workforce. In 2025, the province welcomed 118 new paramedics but simultaneously lost 116 due to various factors, including retirement and relocation. To combat this issue, the provincial government, led by Premier Susan Holt, announced a funding initiative of $2.5 million to equip ambulances with thrombolytics, a critical medication for treating heart attacks. This move aligns New Brunswick with other provinces that already provide this capability to their paramedics.

Additionally, the government has made a tuition reimbursement program for future paramedics permanent, incentivizing training and service commitment. This program aims to fill previously vacant training seats, which had been a significant challenge. Experts in the field, including Dr. John Dornan, New Brunswick's health minister, and Derek Cassista from the paramedic association, stress the importance of expanding paramedics' roles to enhance job satisfaction and retention. As these initiatives take effect, they hope to improve work-life balance for paramedics and ensure adequate ambulance coverage.