The province has announced a potential solution to improve access to ambulance services in the Trepassey area—a two-hour drive from St. John’s.

Private operator Fewer’s Ambulance served notice earlier this year that it would be withdrawing service from the area, citing reduced demand, issues keeping staff and ensuring that paramedics are able to keep their skills up.

Health Minister Tom Osborne says government has been looking at the unique geographic challenges of that area, and considering the introduction of a “rapid response unit” to serve area residents.

Osborne describes it as a mobile unit that will be staffed by an advanced care paramedic. He says it will provide regular service and will be stationed in the area. Osborne states if someone is waiting for an ambulance, the mobile unit will be able to provide life-saving services in the interim.