Alberta Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services Adriana LaGrange has directed Emergency Health Services to halt the current ground ambulance procurement approach and work with the City of Lethbridge and its integrated Fire and EMS to develop a more effective path forward.
Mayor Blaine Hyggen said given how important EMS is to the community, the City is grateful the Government of Alberta is taking a second look at how best to move forward.
“We know there’s still a lot of work ahead, but we are optimistic and look forward to collaborating on the next steps,” Hyggen said.
Hyggen also thanks the hardworking members of Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services who show up to work everyday to provide lifesaving services residents rely on. “Your dedication and professionalism helps keep our community safe and healthy.”
“We also know integrated service is more expensive, and we need to find a way to make it sustainable without putting tax burden on the residents. Since March of this year, we’ve been asked for collaboration and we’ve been heard — which is absolutely great,” Hyggen added.
According to Hyggen, the City’s goal is to create a secure and financially viable future for Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services. “We’ll continue to work towards that. Again, this is very new and there’s a lot of work to come.”
“We’re feeling optimistic the players are all coming together to find a solution,” Hyggen explained.
Over the past week, the mayor has had numerous conversations with the minister, and according to Hyggen she mentioned this is not a one-size-fits-all. “Which is important.”
“There’s many communities that received the letter, seven of us, and she made it loud and clear she will work with each community to find what their needs are,” he said.
