The Province is changing how EMS (ambulance) is funded across Alberta. Municipalities are now being asked to review their service models in response.
EMS Service Delivery FAQs
The City of Red Deer is reviewing potential changes to EMS service delivery in response to direction from the Province. No decisions have been made. City Council will consider options based on financial, operational, and service impacts to the community.
Who decided to make this change?
The Province of Alberta, through EHS-Alberta, has set the direction for how ambulance services will be funded moving forward.
What are the timelines?
- City Council is expected to consider options on May 5, 2026.
- The current EMS contract expires September 30, 2026, with The City continuing to provide ambulance services under that contract until March 31, 2027.
When does The City’s current contract with AHS end?
The current contract expires on September 30, 2026; however, The City will continue to provide ambulance services until March 31, 2027.
What is The City doing about it?
The City is:
- Gathering information
- Reviewing options
- Working with other municipalities
- Preparing a report for City Council
What is the City’s formal position?
City administration does not have a formal position at this time.
Administration is working on an analysis of and options to share with City Council at an upcoming City Council meeting, which is expected to take place on May 5, 2026. City Council will make a decision after reviewing all available information.
What options are being considered?
There are several options that Council may consider, including:
- Exiting ambulance service delivery
- Continuing ambulance service as a separate division
- Maintaining the current integrated model
At this stage, no decisions have been made. Each option requires detailed analysis, including financial impacts and service considerations. That work is currently underway, and decisions will be made once a full review is complete.
Will service levels change if we un-integrate?
It is too early to determine impacts on service levels. This is part of the analysis being completed.
Will people lose their jobs?
Potential impacts on staffing are being assessed. No decisions have been made at this time.
Is Red Deer the only community affected?
No. Several Alberta municipalities with integrated models are facing similar decisions.
Why are communities taking different approaches?
Each municipality has:
- Different service models
- Different financial realities
- Different operational needs
- Different local priorities
What is the financial impact?
There are significant cost differences between options. The City is analyzing these impacts before decisions are made.