Stars Ready for Takeoff as Province Doubles Funding

Alberta’s government is continuing to address emergency medical services (EMS) issues by ensuring sustainable, long-term funding so STARS can continue to offer high-quality critical care for Albertans.

Budget 2022 spending to expand health capacity will see provincial funding to Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) increase from $7 million to more than $15 million. That means Alberta’s government will cover approximately half of STARS’ base operating costs – up from about 23 per cent.

Alberta’s government continues to explore ways to enhance emergency medical services, including air ambulance services. The Alberta EMS Provincial Advisory Committee is developing recommendations to address EMS system pressures. A subcommittee that includes key partners will focus on further strengthening air ambulance services. An independent review to further improve the EMS dispatch system will also include air ambulance dispatch processes, and is expected to be complete by fall 2022.

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