Paramedic treated for PTSD gets job back after 9-month battle

A paramedic who has been fighting for the right to do his job is headed backto work this morning,feeling vindicated.

"It's exciting," saidDaveMcAllister. "It's what I love to do."

• Regulator's PTSD suspension is 'unlawful,' says human rights lawyer

Oneyear ago McAllister was diagnosed with work-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

He informedhis employer andsoughtprofessional help.

A psychologist cleared him to go back to work, but the Alberta College of Paramedics refused torenew his registration.

The college's registration committee, an organization made up of para-medicine practitioners who volunteer their time, wanteddetails about what medications he might be taking, a list of situations that could trigger his disorder, and whether he was addicted to drugs or alcohol.

They also asked for a copy of his full psychological assessment.

McAllister refused the request and launched an appeal, believingtheletterfrom his doctor should be enough, but the appeal failed.

"It kind of puts a dark cloud over getting better and getting treatment," he said Tuesday.

After nine months, McAllisterthreatened to take his case tothe Court of Queen's Bench fora judicial review.

"Not long after that, I was given back mylicence," he said.

On Wednesday McAllister beginsa specialized re-integration work schedule with the goal ofhelping him gradually return to his full duties as a paramedic.

Still McAllister andthree other Albertaparamedics withsimilar experiences will launch a human rights complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

McAllistersaidthe struggle was worthwhile, if it makes it easier for others.

"The support and the changes that have come from people coming forward should show everyone that it's OKto come forward and get help," he said.

"It really isn't a scary monster that no one wants to talk about."