HALO air ambulance grounded for EHS investigation

Southern Alberta Newspapers File Photo. SUSPENDED: EHS Alberta has suspended operations of the HALO air ambulance service while an investigation is conducted into a “safety incident.”

By Zoe Mason
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Emergency Health Services Alberta has temporarily suspended the use of the southeastern Alberta’s air ambulance service.

CEO Paul Carolan told Southern Alberta Newspapers in a statement Sept. 16 that HALO received notice of the suspension from EHS on Sept. 11. HALO was required to submit a corrective action plan by Sept. 19.

“Emergency Health Services — Alberta has temporarily suspended the use of HALO while a review is undertaken following a recent operational matter during a patient transfer,” said Carolan.

Carolan did not expand on the nature of the incident that occurred.

“As we are working through this with EHS, I am not prepared to comment further at this time,” he said.

In its statement, EHS-Alberta described the cause of the suspension as a “safety incident.”

“While EHS is addressing safety concerns, we want to be clear that no patients, medical staff, or crew were injured during this event,” added Carolan.

EHS-Alberta says service will remain paused while a full review is conducted and safety processes are strengthened.

“HALO is working closely with EHS-Alberta to address concerns, with all parties supportive of next steps,” said EHS in its statement.

Carolan emphasized that HALO remains available for other public safety incidents, including police, fire and search and rescue while the air ambulance is grounded. Meanwhile, STARS air ambulance service will provide service in the Medicine Hat area for the duration of the interruption.

“For nearly two decades, HALO has been proud to serve rural and remote communities across southern Alberta. Guided by our values, a strong sense of duty and a commitment to those we serve, HALO has always placed the highest priority on patient care and operational excellence,” said Carolan.

He says HALO’s corrective action plan is being finalized and will be submitted ahead of EHS-Alberta’s deadline.

“HALO remains fully committed to working with EHS to address the concerns identified and ensure all expectations are met.”