WINNIPEG, MB – The Provincial government reduced ambulance fees yesterday by and additional $85.00.

The reduction was Initially announced in last month’s provincial budget, the fee reduction took effect on April 1. The new cost is a 20% reduction as it’s down from $425. Manitobans are paying either $340 or the pre-existing base fee established by the service provider, whichever is lower. This new reduction represents an average total decrease of $182 since 2016, when the average ambulance fee in Manitoba was $522.

“Manitobans going through a potentially life-threatening situation should not have to worry about whether they can afford an ambulance before calling for one,” said Premier Pallister. “Our government continues to address that concern for Manitobans. We have reduced ambulance fees by 35 per cent in the past two years as we work toward meeting our promise of cutting those bills in half by 2020.”

Ambulance service costs are the responsibility of the patient in jurisdictions across the country, as these services are outside the scope of The Canada Health Act. In Manitoba, land ambulance services are delivered by a combination of providers including regional health authorities, municipalities and First Nation communities.

“Ambulance costs can be a major burden for many Manitobans including seniors on fixed incomes,” said Tom Farrell, president, Manitoba Association of Senior Centres. “Seeing this important issue addressed in a meaningful way by this government is welcome news that will help many Manitobans.”

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