Learning about ParaMed Home Health Care: A co-op student experience

During her cooperative education (co-op) term with Extendicare’s Public Affairs team, Nav had the opportunity to learn more about ParaMed, Extendicare’s home health care division and joined

 the team on a visit to a ParaMed Skills Lab in downtown Toronto.  

ParaMed Skills Labs provide hands-on learning and skills training to team members including Home Support Workers, Personal Support Workers, and Nurses to strengthen their skillset and provide patients with quality care.  

Nav shared her co-op experience and what she learned about home health care. Following her co-op term, Nav graduated from Sheridan College with a postgraduate certificate in Marketing.

How was your visit to a ParaMed Skills Lab?

My visit to ParaMed’s Toronto Central district office was such a great experience. I got the chance to meet home health care professionals including Personal Support Workers, Nurses, as well as Office Administrators and Coordinators. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and open to sharing their stories about their careers at ParaMed.  

One of the highlights was visiting the ParaMed Skills Lab. Seeing the hands-on training space helped me understand ParaMed’s strong commitment to quality care. The Skills Lab allows team members to practice real-life scenarios in a safe environment. It was impressive to see the level of training care providers experience to ensure they are confident and capable in their roles. Overall, the whole experience gave me a deeper understanding of what the home health care industry really looks like. 

What do you think others should know about ParaMed? 

ParaMed helps people get the care they need at home, which makes a real difference in their daily lives. The team is professional, focused and dedicated. I think more people should know that ParaMe

d is not just about providing care, but also about supporting skilled professionals in their home health care careers. ParaMed  offers training and learning opportunities to help team members grow in their roles.  

What have you learned about home health care during your co-op?

Coming from a marketing background, I didn’t know much about the home health care space before this co-op. But after spending time with the ParaMed team, I realized how much work and skills training happens behind the scenes and how deeply personal this kind of care is. I’d say it’s not just about providing care and support, but also about comfort, connection and trust between Paramed team members and their patients.