Dispatch Consolidation
The consolidation of 35 EMS dispatch centres to three began April 1, 2009. Consolidating dispatch allows EMS dispatch to see available resources across the province at a glance. Coordination of resources ensures the closest ambulance is sent – regardless of where the ambulance is from.
The three EMS consolidated dispatch centres include:
- Northern Communications Centre (currently located between the towns of Peace River and Grimshaw)
- Central Communications Centre (located in Edmonton)
- Southern Communications Centre - contracted to City of Calgary Public Safety Communications (PSC)
In March 2010, the Minister of Health asked AHS to temporarily suspend further dispatch transitions. The temporary halt allowed time for AHS EMS to complete a review of the consolidations already completed and identify opportunities on how the process could be further strengthened.
While Alberta Health and Wellness continues to support consolidation of dispatch services as fundamental to the new EMS model, the mandate to complete this consolidation within two years has changed. Going forward, dispatch centres who wish to proceed with consolidation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
To date, 20 consolidations have taken place. Work is now underway to consolidate the County of Strathcona Emergency Services following their request to have AHS take over EMS dispatch functions. Once the County of Strathcona has been consolidated, there will be 13 dispatch centres remaining that have not yet been consolidated including:
- Bonnyville
- Parks Canada Jasper
- Fort McMurray
- Nunee Health Centre
- Wainwright
- Muskwachees
- Prairie Health Region
- Taber
- Lethbridge
- Rocky Mountain House
- Red Deer
- Wheatland Siksika
- Medicine Hat
