Table 1

Comparison of prehospital transfer capabilities across the trauma system in northern Alberta between January 2017 and September 2018

VariableJanuary 2017September 2018p value
No. of available EMS ambulances, median (range)2 (0–3)2 (0–3)
EMS crew BLS certification, %60700.04
EMS crew ACLS certification, %62720.06
Ability to auto launch STARS, %78820.16
Helipad for STARS access, %60660.18
  • ACLS = Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support; BCLS = Basic Life Support; EMS = Emergency Medical Services; STARS = Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service.