Alberta's emergency response community is reeling after the death of an on-duty paramedic at the Airdrie Urgent Care Centre on Dec. 18.
According to a statement from the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) — the union that represents paramedics in Alberta — the cause of the advanced care paramedic's death was a cardiac arrest.
"[The HSAA] has no doubt immediate care was rendered by trained health-care professionals — care in which our fallen colleague would have participated, had he not become the patient," the statement read, adding there was no ambulance crew available within the city that could respond to the incident.
"The fact that they had been pulled away from their community when this happened will be a hardship for our members who lost one of their own."
The death comes as ambulance availability continues to be an ongoing issue and topic of discussion in communities outside of Calgary, including Cochrane.
In previous interviews, HSAA president Mike Parker said a lack of funding for ambulance coverage has resulted in rural or suburban crews being called in to service the larger urban centres, where a lack of sufficient resources and high call volume drains resources from nearby communities.
When this occurs, a "code red" is issued, which means there are no available ambulances in a particular community.
"It is unacceptable that communities like Airdrie are being continually left without an ambulance to respond to emergencies," the HSAA's statement read. "Every minute matters when urgent care is needed – lives are at risk."
The HSAA's statement also criticized Alberta Health Services [AHS] for how the health authority responded to backlash over the incident.
"Compounding the raw emotions being felt during this time of mourning is a disappointing choice made by AHS. Choosing to defend itself on social media rather than showing compassion to the family and colleagues of our member was disrespectful and alarming."
AHS responded on Twitter that a "shortage of resources did not play a factor in the care and treatment our colleague received." The agency stated AHS staff are in direct contact with the family of the deceased and have offered support to all involved.
"AHS is saddened by the tragic and unexpected death of a colleague and friend," read a statement from the health authority. "We send our deepest sympathies to this paramedic’s family, friends and colleagues.
"We will continue to be available to the family to answer any questions or concerns they may have. Out of respect for the family, AHS will not be offering further comment at this time."
In the HSAA's statement, the union said EMS professionals needing assistance are encouraged to utilize the Employee and Family Assistance program or contact the EMS Provincial Peer Support line at 403-888-5181.
“My heart breaks for the loss of a colleague and friend,” read a quote from Parker. “I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family and all the friends and colleagues feeling this loss.
“During this very difficult time, I encourage all health care professionals to take a moment for yourself to reflect and to check in with colleagues.”
