Alberta’s emergency health services system is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. This featured presentation explores the evolution of paramedic services from a unified provincial model under Alberta Health Services to the creation of a standalone entity, the Emergency Health Services Provincial Health Corporation (EHS PHC).
Since the 2009 consolidation of paramedic services, Alberta has benefited from standardized protocols, consistent operational practices, and improved efficiencies across the province. Building on this foundation, the Government of Alberta’s 2023 “System Refocus” initiative initiated a sweeping redesign of healthcare delivery, restructuring services across multiple ministries, agencies, and corporations.
As part of this transformation, EHS formally transitioned out of AHS, with the EHS PHC becoming a legal entity on June 1, 2025, and assuming full operational responsibility on September 1, 2025. This transition has occurred while continuing to deliver critical services to more than five million Albertans—amid rising demand, workforce pressures, and infrastructure challenges.
“Building the Bridge While Walking on It” highlights how system transformation can occur in real time without disrupting frontline care. The session will examine key governance and legislative changes, alongside the operational and cultural shifts required to support a modern, patient-centered emergency health system.
The presentation will also explore major modernization initiatives aimed at aligning responses more closely with patient needs, reducing unnecessary ambulance deployments, and strengthening integration across the broader health and social care continuum.
Key themes include:
- Leadership and system transformation
- Legislative reform and governance evolution
- Integration across health and social services
- Workforce wellbeing and organizational culture
- Operational modernization and continuous learning
Don’t forget to register for the summit at https://paramedicchiefsleadershipsummit.com/delegates/.
Additionally, a gentle reminder to secure your accommodations using this link: https://paramedicchiefsleadershipsummit.com/venue/.