In a release to our newsroom, The Cypress Health Region has addressed the EMS staffing shortage in Shaunavon.

Brad Boutilier, Manager of Communications for the Health Region, says that while there are currently gaps in EMS staffing in Shaunavon, they are actively recruiting to the vacant positions.

He says part time and casual positions are generally more difficult to recruit to, and they are engaged in discussions with the union provider and are proposing adjustments to the structures of the vacant positions to make them more attractive to prospective employees.

The Health Region emphasizes that ambulance coverage remains in place at all times. Residents of Shaunavon and the surrounding area are asked to dial 9-1-1 if faced with a medical emergency and an ambulance will be dispatched. 9-1-1 operators will determine and dispatch the nearest ambulance available.

This may include an ambulance from a neighboring community and this sharing of resources is  standard EMS approach utilized throughout many areas of the province.

Boutilier adds that the Health Region thanks and recognizes the EMS staff in Shaunavon, and the community's volunteer First Responders, who work together to provide excellent EMS services for the community.