By Sarah Klein
Health Minister Theresa Oswald announces new power lift stretchers to assist Manitoba paramedics lift increasingly heavier patients while on the job. (WINNIPEG PARAMEDICS / TWITTER)
Manitoba paramedics are testing new power lift stretchers in ambulances across the province.
Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced the new equipment on Thursday during an event at the Manitoba legislature.
“Paramedics work tirelessly to ensure patients get the care they need during an emergency,” Oswald said.
“Their jobs aren’t easy — they are very physical and demanding. This pilot project will determine how the new power lift stretchers can help avoid paramedic injuries in the field, ensuring they can focus on delivering the exemplary life-saving care Manitoba families have come to expect.”
The new stretchers cost several thousands of dollars more than the manual $4,000 stretchers. The pilot project will help the province to see where the stretchers are most needed to support paramedics.
