Strathcona County responds to provincial EMS funding update; Council to review next steps

On Friday, March 13 Emergency Health Services – Alberta (EHS) notified Strathcona County of a change in funding for Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The County was asked to decide by Tuesday, March 31, whether to maintain our current integrated fire and ambulance service model, where all members are trained as both firefighters and paramedics. The timeline has since been extended to Thursday, April 30.

Strathcona County recognizes the significance of the current EMS contract decision and the potential impacts it may have on our community. Recent developments have created challenges as we work to fully understand the operational, financial and service implications for our residents. Given the importance of maintaining reliable, high‑quality emergency services, Council is taking the necessary time to review all available details and will be meeting to discuss the Government of Alberta's emergency services cost system changes at the next Council meeting on Tuesday, March 31. An update will be provided following the meeting on Tuesday.