Your source for current, accurate information on the progress being made to improve Emergency Medical Services (EMS) care for all Albertans

EMS: Saving Lives, Improving Care

EMS activity in the South Zone:

• EMS services in Fort Macleod, Milk River and Raymond were enhanced from Basic Life Support (BLS) to Advanced Life Support (ALS). BLS ambulances provide essential medical care, but ALS ambulances are able to respond to more complex medical situations, with at least one paramedic and more life saving equipment on board.
• Non-ambulance transfer vans in South Zone can transport patients between AHS facilities without tying up ambulance resources. Paramedic response units provide additional ALS level support in rural areas.
• Paramedics are assisting with patient care in rural health facilities, including Coaldale, when not responding to calls.
• Borderless’ dispatch allows EMS resources to be called in from neighbouring communities when required and also ensures the closest ambulance is sent to emergency calls. Previously, ambulances were restricted as to where they could respond based on municipal borders.
• The Community Health and Pre-Hospital Support Program (CHAPS) has been rolled out across the province. Paramedics are able to refer patients to Home Care and other community services that help these patients remain safe in their home and reduce their need for EMS transport to emergency departments.
• Medical protocols have been established to ensure all patients, wherever they are in the province, receive the same level of care.