Foundations expand non-ambulance transfer resources

Special minivans transfer 1,500 patients annually in southwest part of South Zone

SOUTH ZONE — Thanks to the work of three local health foundations, a new wheelchair-accessible non-ambulance transfer (NAT) van is now in service alongside five other NAT vans currently in use in the South Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS).

The new van, which went into service this month and which replaces a non-wheelchair accessible vehicle, is helping to free up ground ambulance resources throughout the west part of South Zone by transferring low-risk, medically stable patients.

The specially-equipped minivans transport patients between health care facilities for specialist consults, diagnostics and procedures. Previously, ground ambulances would be used for these scheduled, low-risk patient transfers. NAT vans are staffed by emergency medical responders and are equipped with automated electronic defibrillators, first-aid kits, and sophisticated GPS and communications equipment. As well, the vans can accommodate up to four seated passengers, or two passengers in wheelchairs.

The newest van was jointly purchased by the Crowsnest Pass Health Foundation, Fort Macleod & District Health Foundation and the Windy Slopes Health Foundation, with each contributing $20,000 towards the $60,000 total cost.

Donna Schauerte, Chair of the Windy Slopes Health Foundation, speaking on behalf of the trio of foundations, said the foundations were happy to fund this vital transportation service for their area and agree that joint funding makes sense given the close approximation of their communities.

“We are fortunate to have ongoing community support for our health care and patients,” says Schauerte. “This is a crucial service, not only in freeing up ambulances for priority trips, but helping our patients who might not have family or alternative transportation to medical appointments,” she adds. “Our communities in each area are outstanding in contributing to our health care.”

The replacement NAT van is expected to make as many as 480 trips annually — about 20 per cent of all ground ambulance calls in the western area of South Zone.

Tony Pasich, Director of EMS for AHS South Zone, says, “The NAT vans provide an appropriate level of care and service for thousands of patients every year. They also keep fully equipped ambulances and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) crews available in the community for patients who need a higher level of care.

“AHS EMS is always looking for ways to improve the patient experience and to use health care resources as efficiently as possible,” he says. “The new van helps us achieve both goals.

“For patients who are medically stable, capable of sitting in a seat, and who don’t require oxygen or an IV, NAT vans are a safe and comfortable way for them to get to their destination,” says Pasich.

Matthew Wells, 63, agrees. A resident at Lee Crest supportive living facility in Cardston since April 2013, he’s used a NAT van regularly for a year to attend his medical appointments at Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge.

“My son and daughter both live out of town, so it’s convenient to have transportation to my appointments. Using a NAT van for the 160-km round trip makes sense for people who don’t need an ambulance. The van is comfortable and it’s easy to get on and off with my wheelchair.”

Five vans have been operating in South Zone since 2013, with two based in Raymond and three based in Brooks. The new van is now based in Fort Macleod. Across Alberta, there are 24 NAT vans in service.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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