Adapting Prehospital Care to a Large Rural Geographic Area: A Review of the Emergency Health Services Nova Scotia Implementation

Abstract

Nova Scotia is building a system of prehospital care based on four principles: “Fail Safe” government ownership; “Full Service” advanced life support capable; “High Performance” resource efficiency; and “Fiscally Responsible” performance goals, incentives and penalties. Emergency Health Services Nova Scotia exercises funding and regulatory control through service provided by a private contractor. Benefits include improved fleet and equipment management, information systems, 911 dispatch and performance tracking, medical control and paramedic care, and public accountability. Problems include rural dispatch, budget costs, labour issues and stakeholder communication.