Health and Social Services Minister Walter McEwen today issued the following statement regarding Prince Edward Island's Memorandum of Agreement on the provision of Emergency Air Medical Services with the Provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
THE BEST EMERGENCY AIR AMBULANCE SERVICES available in the Maritimes are now accessible to Islanders, says Premier Catherine Callbeck.
"The Memorandum of Agreement that we have reached with the Provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick will ensure that Islanders have rapid access to high-quality emergency air transport," the Premier said.
On 30 September 1996, an agreement was reached that will permit the Prince Edward Island health care system to use Nova Scotia's helicopter system and New Brunswick's fixed-wing aircraft. It is anticipated the two agreements will call for an additional investment of approximately $500,000 annually in the health of Islanders.
"By entering into this agreement, Prince Edward Island will enjoy the best that is available in the Maritimes. I am very pleased that we have managed to move forward on this initiative so quickly," Premier Callbeck said.
Honourable Walter McEwen said the new service will allow "rapid access to major health care centres across the Maritime region.
"The air ambulance services will be staffed by full-time, professional medical personnel, who will ensure high-quality care for Islanders during emergency situations," Mr. McEwen said.
Health and Community Services Agency Chair Dr. Don Ling said the new service will be an important component in an evolving system of emergency response.
"The infrastructure we now have in place allows for rapid access to emergency services. For instance, the ground transport currently available is of extremely high-quality. The services that were announced today will significantly add to the options available to Island health care professionals as they make decisions about appropriate care for their patients."
For more information, please contact Health and Community Services, Medical Consultant Joyce Thompson at 368-6130.