93-Year-Old Winnipeg Man Waits 6 Hours for Ambulance After Fall
A 93-year-old Winnipeg man, Allan Crouse, endured a six-hour wait for an ambulance after falling and breaking his hip. His family was initially told to expect a three-hour delay. The long wait has raised concerns about staffing levels among paramedics in the city.
Allan's daughter witnessed her father in agony, screaming on the lawn as they awaited medical assistance. Neighbour Raena Chammartin was shocked by the extended delay. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service uses a medical priority dispatch system to prioritise calls, but this did not prevent the lengthy wait for Allan.
The Manitoba Government and Employees Union, representing paramedics, has spoken out about the issue. Kyle Ross from the union stated that there are currently insufficient paramedics to meet the growing demand in Winnipeg. He did not specify an exact number needed but emphasised the urgent requirement for more staff to ensure timely care. The union finds six-hour waits unacceptable. The service has reported an increase in call volumes year-over-year, exacerbating the staffing concerns.
Allan Crouse is now receiving treatment in the hospital, and his family eagerly awaits further updates on his condition. The long wait for an ambulance has highlighted the need for increased paramedic staffing in Winnipeg to ensure prompt and effective medical care for all residents.