B.C. spends $91 million to hire paramedics, buy ambulances, targets rural care
VICTORIA — British Columbia is getting more paramedics, dispatchers and ambulances in an effort by the government to improve emergency services.
Health Minister Terry Lake said Wednesday more than $91 million will be spent over the next three years to hire 60 paramedics, 20 emergency dispatchers and buy six new ambulances.
The province will also complete the implementation of a program that allows paramedics in 73 rural communities to provide minor health services to patients.
“It will take time to recruit, train and place people, but I know B.C. Emergency Health Services is very aware of areas of the province that have challenges,” Lake said.