Research

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Alberta are facing critical challenges. This qualitative study aims to describe and understand the frontline perspective regarding system level issues and propose provider-informed policy recommendations.

Nearly every minute in Alberta, paramedics are called to a potential emergency that may require the use of medical and pharmaceutical interventions, as well as a variety of psychosocial skills, to save lives and prevent further illness. Hence, paramedics and the work they do on the streets (in ever-changing and unpredictable environments) and off the streets (in hospitals and other facilities) are central to the provision of health care in Alberta. For many Albertans, paramedics are the first point of contact in the health and social care system in the province. Suffice it to say, paramedics are a key component of this system.