Stroke Ambulance

Stroke Program Edmonton Zone

First of its Kind in Canada

In an ischemic stroke, a person loses about 1.9 million brain cells every minute. This is alarming, especially in Alberta where many people live in rural areas far from hospitals that can give them the right stroke care. To address this issue, the Stroke Ambulance was introduced in 2017 as a pilot project. It's a special ambulance that brings quick stroke treatment straight to patients, within a 250km radius of Edmonton. This life-saving service was made a reality thanks to the support of the University Hospital Foundation and many generous donors. Our Stroke Ambulance is the first to serve both rural and urban areas and is currently the only of its kind in Canada.

If you are a healthcare provider, visit Stroke, Information for Health Professionals.

Equipment & Crew

The Stroke Ambulance is equipped with a CT scanner, lab equipment, and video conferencing equipment.

It enables the onboard 5-person crew consisting of a CT tech, RN, stroke fellow, and two medics to diagnose and administer clot-busting drugs on the spot, saving time and brain.

Quick Facts

  • 1.9 million brain cells are lost per minute in an untreated ischemic stroke
  • A “clot buster”, the leading treatment for stroke, can only be administered within 4.5 hours from onset of stroke symptoms. 

In interim analysis, the Stroke Ambulance demonstrated:

  • 1 out of 3 rural patients would have otherwise missed their window for treatment
  • 33% reduction in length of stay in hospital
  • Rural patients were treated over 60 minutes faster than standard hospital care
  • 80% ‘good outcome’ rate compared to 67% in trials of treated ischemic stroke

Articles & Media

Explore a selection of articles that delve into the lifesaving impacts of the Stroke Ambulance. Learn about its inception, the pivotal role of generous donors, and the real-world difference it’s making in the lives of stroke victims.

Have a Question?

For more details, inquiries, or to lend your support to this transformative healthcare initiative, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are eager to share how the Stroke Ambulance is helping to fill gaps in stroke care for Albertans.

Email: stroke.ambulance@ahs.ca