People still need to call 911

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer
Alberta Health Services is reminding every one that, if an emergency strikes, they still need to call 911 or visit the emergency of their local hospital.
Alberta Health Services issued a news release urging Albertans to call 911 or visit an emergency department immediately if they are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, as delaying treatment can have
fatal consequences.
They recently launched a public awareness campaign reminding Albertans to regularly seek care with any changes to their health status, especially those considered medical emergencies, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Data shows fewer people are seeking emergency medical care for heart attacks and strokes during the pandemic, likely due to concerns about contracting COVID-19. These conditions cannot be self-managed at home; delaying hospital treatment can lead to preventable death.
A webpage at www.ahs.ca/heartandstroke (no dashes or hyphens) highlights the signs of a heart attack and stroke, and also provides prevention information. The public will also see messages on digital signage screens in more than 100 locations within Alberta Health Services health facilities and clinics across the province.
The campaign aims to reassure Albertans that health-care facilities, including primary care providers’ offices, are safe to visit and the right places to go when they need care. The campaign also aims to:
• Educate Albertans on the importance of knowing the symptoms of heart attack and stroke.
• Promote self-management by empowering Albertans who are living with existing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart diseases, high blood pressure, COPD, and so on, to access regular health-care services such as clinic visits, follow-up tests, and prescription refills, to improve/maintain their quality of life.
• Highlight all health issues need to be investigated, diagnosed and treated; and Albertans must speak to their provider if something about their health does not seem right, or if there are any changes to their health.
• Visit albertafindadoctor.ca or call 811 to find a family doctor.