The EMS MCPs are designed to support people and their families who have chosen to remain at home for palliative and end of life care. For a general overview of the service, see our service listing.
Clinicians should access the EMS by calling 911 and answering the 911 call taker’s questions as best as possible. Clinicians may advise the call taker that the patient is palliative, but it is not necessary. An ambulance will be dispatched based on the answers provided to the call taker.
EMS may be accessed for any palliative or end-of-life care patient in the community.
Clinicians should access EMS when they require front line paramedics’ assistance during a palliative emergency (such as increased pain, shortness of breath, delirium, nausea or vomiting) and when the clinician is available to coordinate any follow up care that is required.
Paramedics will work collaboratively with the clinician (in the home or over the phone) to determine a potential course of treatment for the patient. EMS will help administer emergency medications, oxygen, and other supports as required to assist in managing symptoms. Front line paramedics have the opportunity to liaise with online medical consultation physicians and/or the patient’s family/palliative physician (if available) can also be consulted by phone regarding the patient’s treatment.
If the patient is able to be managed in the community setting, paramedics and the home care clinician will work together to support the patient’s Goals of Care and wishes. However, if transfer to an acute care setting is wanted or required, paramedics will facilitate appropriate transport in consultation with the patient’s care team. The clinician will coordinate any follow-up care (e.g., prescription updates, arranging for medical supplies such as oxygen, and advising the patient’s responsible physician of the event).
If the clinician is not available, EMS will make every attempt to connect with the patient’s most responsible health care provider and/or make arrangements to follow-up with the clinician after providing appropriate treatment.
Ambulance response and transport is covered for patients on Alberta Blue Cross Palliative Coverage.
Patients are encouraged to apply for this coverage as soon as possible so EMS will be covered.
