City renews master services agreement with Alberta Health Services

Lethbridge City Council approved a new 2.5-year agreement with Alberta Health Services (AHS) to deliver emergency medical services (EMS) through Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES). This agreement replaces the contract between the two parties that was set to expire March 31, 2024 and provides an option for a 2.5-year extension bringing the total contract length to 5 years.  

The renewed agreement supports a core EMS service of four ground ambulances around the clock, ramping up to 10 ambulances each day during peak-demand hours between noon and 7 p.m.  

“We are grateful to be able to reach this agreement and continue providing the high-quality, integrated fire and emergency services our community deserves,” says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “The new agreement also reduces the amount of municipal tax support required from Lethbridge residents for emergency medical services.” 

This contract signifies the joint commitment between the City of Lethbridge and AHS to ensure the delivery of emergency services to the community continues, without interruption.  

“We recognize there are significant changes happening within our provincial health care system at this time,” says Greg Adair, LFES Chief. “AHS has been an excellent partner through these negotiations, and we remain committed to working together on solutions that will provide the best long-term, sustainable EMS care for our community.” 

This new funding contract helps reduce the tax supported dollars needed to operate this critical service. The LFES leadership team is also actively exploring ways to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery, ensuring EMS care meets the future needs of the growing city.   

“LFES members care immensely about the work they do and serving our community,” says Chief Adair. “We will continue to adapt to the challenges ahead and find ways to innovate and improve our services for the benefit of Lethbridge residents.”  

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