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Ambulance crisis leads paramedics to demand more resources: HSAA

“The number of events that led to emergency calls has increased nearly 36 per cent since 2009, while the population of Alberta has increased by more than 15 per cent. Yet, we have virtually the same number of ambulances." — Mike Parker, HSAA President

Edmonton (15 Nov. 2017) — Up to 40 paramedics in uniform will gather at the legislature in Edmonton today to demand the provincial government provide more resources to frontline emergency care.  

Paramedics make case for more resources, as Albertans wait too long for care

“Ambulance resources are in crisis in Alberta. Far too often, Albertans experiencing a health care emergency are being forced to wait far too long to get the help they need and deserve,” says Mike Parker, President of Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE), the union that represents about 25,000 health care professionals, including just over 3,400 paramedics.

“The number of events that led to emergency calls has increased nearly 36 per cent since 2009, while the population of Alberta has increased by more than 15 per cent. Yet, we have virtually the same number of ambulances,” he says.

“Resources have been stretched to the breaking point. Injured and sick Albertans are paying the price for the lack of resources as they wait for help to arrive. Paramedics also pay the price with increased stress and mental health injuries that result from them not being able to provide the quality of care they believe Albertans deserve, and from working longer and longer unhealthy shifts, often with no times for bathroom breaks or meals," Parker continued.

Paramedics will also be in the gallery of the legislature to be recognized for their service. They have chosen this occasion to lobby MLAs for increased EMS resources.