The Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan (HSAS) has launched a campaign calling for action to address Saskatchewan’s growing shortage of paramedics.
“Paramedics are essential health care professionals,” says HSAS President Karen Schmid. “They respond to medical emergencies and provide life saving care to the people of Saskatchewan. Right now, there are not enough paramedics to keep pace with the growing demand for emergency medical services.”
Since 2017, ambulance call volumes in Saskatchewan have increased by 40 per cent, placing unprecedented pressure on the health care system. At the same time, chronic vacancy rates continue to leave ambulance services understaffed, resulting in fewer ambulances available to respond when people call 911.
“When paramedic positions remain vacant, the consequences are felt by patients and communities,” Schmid continues. “Fewer staffed ambulances can mean longer response time and delays in getting people the emergency care they need.”
Paramedics play a critical role throughout Saskatchewan’s healthcare system, responding to everything from heart attacks and strokes to motor vehicle collisions, overdoses, and medical emergencies in rural and urban communities alike.
“When people call 911, they should be able to get the help they need,” says Schmid. “More must be done to recruit and retain paramedics so that communities across Saskatchewan have reliable access to emergency medical care.”
The reality is: Paramedics are not optional.