New Emergency Prehospital Services Policy: Developing an Air Service Adapted to Quebec
SAINT-HUBERT, June 14, 2022 — Airmedic welcomes the new policy on emergency prehospital services (EPS) presented by the Minister of Health and Social Services. However, the company hopes that integrating a coherent prehospital system and an interfacility air structure becomes a government priority. This evolution is crucial to adapt emergency prehospital services to Quebec’s reality, especially in remote regions.
For this reason, Airmedic supports creating a national infrastructure program focused on building heliports near hospital emergency departments. Indeed, private-sector expertise in operations must be considered an essential lever to ensure effective prehospital interventions.
Emergency Prehospital Services: Vital for Isolated Regions
A national program integrated with emergency prehospital services, defined in an action plan, would help save lives. Indeed, it would improve the speed of prehospital and interfacility interventions in hard-to-reach areas. Thus, in a public-private partnership approach, the plan mobilizes dedicated personnel on aircraft. This reduces the withdrawal of hospital staff.
Access to prehospital emergency care for Indigenous communities must also remain a key priority. Such an approach guarantees fair service aligned with cultural safety principles.
“For 10 years, we have been a trusted partner to the health network. We have completed over 6,000 missions and support the government in some sectors. We want to contribute actively to creating a public program that supports Quebec patients, professionals, and health institutions. Moreover, we want to participate in developing a concrete action plan with clear and qualitative tender rules,” says Sophie Larochelle, Airmedic Chief Executive Officer.
Quebec at a Crossroads
It is important to remember that for more than 20 years, several reports—whether from coroners, health professionals, or commissions—have emphasized the essential role of emergency prehospital services. Despite its vast territory, Quebec remains the only province without a public upstream medical care program.
About Airmedic
Airmedic is an innovative private Quebec company. It offers assistance and ground and air medical transport throughout Quebec. Furthermore, it is the only company operating its own fleet of planes and helicopters dedicated to emergency evacuations and interfacility transfers.
Since 2016, Airmedic has held Accreditation Canada certification. It is also accredited by Transport Canada for IFR flight and night-vision goggle operations. Thus, the company demonstrates its commitment to safe and high-quality care available 24/7.
Learn more about Airmedic protection
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Source: Airmedic
Contact
Raphaële Bourgault
Business Development and Strategic Communications Manager
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514-709-9633
