Saskatoon’s emergency services experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, with paramedics responding to over 42,000 calls. The increase marks a continuation of a decade-long trend of rising emergency responses. Troy Davies, director of public affairs for Medavie Health Services West, noted that while the number of calls has slightly plateaued, it’s still an upward trend post-COVID-19. Interestingly, Saskatchewan’s community paramedic program, which handled more than 8,000 calls, has relieved some pressure from traditional emergency response vehicles. This alternate approach has reshaped how patient care is managed, significantly impacting overall numbers.
Furthermore, the number of incidents involving paramedics administering Narcan for overdoses has declined, a change attributed to efforts by community stakeholders. However, drug-related emergencies are reportedly on the rise, with the data covering instances where paramedics themselves administered Narcan, not accounting for use before their arrival.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority has yet to release the current year’s data but has observed similar increases in emergency calls in the Regina area. The close collaboration between Saskatoon’s emergency services and health authorities is seen as a distinct advantage, enabling more efficient response strategies and management of emergency calls outside of hospital ERs.
