New local EMS station streamlines service

WABASCA-DESMARAIS – A new local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) station is now open and operational.

The $3.1-million, four-bay station enables EMS to deploy both of the town’s ambulances from one building. EMS staff began using the station earlier this month.

“The completion of this facility shows our commitment to providing high quality healthcare throughout our province,” says Sarah Hoffman, Minister of Health.

“The new station is something we know the community has been waiting a long time for. We are listening to their concerns as we work to make life better for families in Wabasca-Desmarais.”

Community stakeholders gathered today to celebrate the new station, which was funded through the Government of Alberta’s Infrastructure Maintenance Program.

“This new station is going to nicely streamline our EMS operations in Wabasca-Desmarais,” says Greg Cummings, AHS Chief Zone Officer, North Zone.

“Having EMS staff and their equipment closer together in a modern facility will meet the local and surrounding communities’ needs, now and in the future.”

Construction on the station began a year ago and was completed this fall, on schedule and on budget. The new facility will better support EMS staff so they can provide the best possible service in the community. It also offers modern, comfortable lodgings for EMS crews.

“Everyone benefits from reliable and timely emergency medical services but they are especially crucial to those living, working or travelling in more remote regions,” says Darren Sandbeck, AHS Senior Provincial Director and Chief Paramedic, EMS. “We’re glad that this new station is open; it’s an investment in our EMS teams and the service they provide.”

Space previously used by EMS personnel in the Wabasca-Desmarais Healthcare Centre is now being used to create permanent space for occupational therapy and physiotherapy services, as well as staff education and training opportunities.

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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