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Ottawa's Funding Cuts Threaten P.E.I. Ambulance Services
24 Apr
Summary
- Federal funding cuts will impact P.E.I. healthcare programs.
- Paramedics union warns of increased workloads and burnout.
- Islanders anticipate longer wait times in acute care services.
Prince Edward Island's health-care system is bracing for negative impacts following federal funding cuts announced by Ottawa. Over $29 million in health-care funding agreements with Health Canada will not be renewed over the next three years, according to P.E.I. Health and Wellness Minister Cory Deagle. This decision will affect crucial programs such as mobile mental health units and palliative home care staffing, with funding for some initiatives ending by March 31, 2027.
Jason Woodbury, president of CUPE Local 3324, which represents paramedics, expressed serious concerns. He stated that these cuts will inevitably lead to an increase in 911 calls and longer wait times in emergency departments. Woodbury highlighted that vital services providing home-based care and mental health crisis response are at risk. He fears increased burnout among paramedics due to staffing shortages and heavier workloads, ultimately affecting the entire health-care system.
