A family residing in Biggar expressed their frustrations over the lack of nearby emergency services, leading to significant financial implications for them. Amy Haynes recounted a distressing incident involving her three-year-old son, Nolan, who developed a high fever exceeding 40°C during the spring. Concerned about his condition, they sought medical attention at a local clinic, where they were informed that his severe fever could potentially result in a seizure and necessitated urgent care.
Upon requesting an ambulance, the family was informed that all three hospitals in Saskatoon, as well as those in North Battleford and Swift Current, had no available beds. This situation prompted a two-and-a-half-hour ambulance journey to Prince Albert, incurring a cost of $1,300 for the one-way trip. Haynes expressed disappointment upon receiving the bill, emphasizing that it was not surprising given the circumstances. Despite the financial burden, she reiterated that it was not their responsibility to deal with the lack of available beds closer to their location.
Nolan was diagnosed with a type of pneumonia by medical professionals in Prince Albert, where he received treatment for several days before being discharged. The Opposition NDP highlighted the family’s ordeal at a news conference in Biggar, underscoring the broader implications for rural communities across Saskatchewan when accessing emergency services. NDP MLA Keith Jorgenson emphasized the critical importance of timely access to care, stressing that even small distances could be decisive in life-threatening situations.
The provincial government responded to the situation by pledging to enhance hospital capacity in Saskatoon with the addition of 146 beds. It clarified that ambulance services are not covered under the Canada Health Act, and there is no insurance provision for ambulance transport between hospitals. The incident has raised concerns about the strain on hospital capacity and its consequences for patients and their families.