Two new rapid response units will improve ambulance response times for Islanders, says Health and Wellness Minister Doug Currie.
“I’m extremely pleased to have these units up and running in the eastern and western parts of the Island to provide additional emergency support to the local communities within those areas,” said Minister Currie. “The units will respond quickly to 911 calls, begin assessment and treatment, and stay with the patient until the ambulance arrives. This means better emergency access and care for the residents of these communities.“
The rapid response units are medically equipped SUVs operated by a highly skilled emergency medical technician III (paramedic).The units include everything that’s in an ambulance, except a stretcher, as they do not transport patients.
“The units are being added to the existing fleet of emergency response vehicles, so there are currently 14 ambulances plus two rapid response units operating on Island roads,” said Health PEI’s executive director of provincial clinical services, Jamie MacDonald. “The additional units will stay within West Prince and Kings County to ensure access to emergency services improves in those rural communities.”
The rapid response units operate Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. which is the busiest time for emergency calls across the province.
“The addition of these two rapid response units will improve ambulance service in rural Prince Edward Island, which was identified as a priority at our recent community meetings,” said the minister. “Our government is committed to continuing to finding ways to strengthen our ambulance service, particularly in rural communities.”
In Prince Edward Island, ground ambulance service is operated by Island EMS with Health PEI providing oversight of the performance-based contract. Health PEI also subsidizes ambulance service fees to reduce cost for Island residents.