Released on February 26, 2009
The Saskatchewan government is taking another step to improve emergency medical services (EMS) by examining the feasibility and best approach to supplement the province's air ambulance system with helicopters.
"Access to health services can be a significant challenge in our province, particularly for rural and northern residents," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "Saskatchewan Air Ambulance is clearly an important part of the solution to that challenge. I am confident this review will set us on the right course to improve our air medical transport system and meet the growing demand for these services."
The review will examine the current ambulance system and assess the implications of adding helicopters to Saskatchewan Air Ambulance's fleet. It is being conducted by Ornge, a non-profit organization that co-ordinates all aspects of Ontario's aero medical transport system.
In December, Saskatchewan launched a review of road ambulance services, which is focusing on pre-hospital and inter-hospital transfers.
"The air medical review will complement the work being done through our review of road ambulance services," McMorris said. "We want to ensure that our entire EMS sector is progressive, efficient and fair for people in all parts of the province."
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For more information, contact:
Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083