The provincial government has unveiled a fully integrated road and air ambulance system which it says will result in faster response times and better allocation of resources.
The province has signed a $560-million contract with Medavie to design, manage and operate the system.
While the contract has been finalized, there are still many aspects of the deal to be worked out.
Medavie will be responsible for all emergency calls and most transfers, as well as determining where the vehicles will be stationed.
Paramedics will be trained to care for patients in the community, before they even require an ambulance. Benefits for employees will include a competitive salary and pensions.
The company and government will put together a plan for a province-wide helicopter emergency medical service with reduced response times and expanded service to the north and south coasts of Labrador. The air component of the system will be based in Gander.)
