Medical First Response

Medical First Response (MFR) began in Manitoba's municipal fire departments in the 1980s. MFR improves emergency medical response by using local responders to provide basic care before paramedics arrive.

MFR systems must be licensed by Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care. They must also have an agreement with Shared Health.

Interested parties may wish to review the Medical First Response Guide to Service Levels document to guide them in their decision-making.

On This Page:


Shared Health Agreement

Shared Health is the provincial health authority that coordinates and delivers health services in Manitoba. Shared Health - Emergency Response Services (ERS) ensures emergency medical response systems work together effectively. To receive a licence, MFR systems must sign an agreement with Shared Health.

For more information about emergency medical response operations, community call volumes, and agreements please contact Shared Health ERS at EmergencyResponseServices@sharedhealthmb.ca or visit the Shared Health ERS website here.

Back to top


Licencing

MFR systems must apply to the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care for a licence. Licensure ensures that service providers meet legislated and regulatory requirements. It also ensures that the public can rely on safe and effective emergency medical care.

Application forms can be found here.

For more information or to apply, contact the Licensing and Compliance Branch at EMSLicensing@mb.gov.ca.

Back to top


Personnel Qualifications

Emergency medical systems can employ:

  • Paramedics and Emergency medical response systems
  • First Responders

Common Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must possess a class 4 drivers licence to drive emergency vehicles

Paramedic and Emergency Medical Responder

  • Must be registered with the College of Paramedics of Manitoba
  • Can assess patients, make treatment decisions, and provide care independently.
  • Must have professional liability insurance.
  • Must be prepared to commit more time and to assume higher costs for training and registration than First Responders.
  • Designed for providing higher levels of care and a career in paramedicine.

For more information about the College of Paramedics of Manitoba click here.

First Responder

  • Must be certified in advanced first aid and basic CPR courses approved by the Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care.
  • Must be an employee or volunteer of a fire department with an MFR licence.
  • Can provide first aid and limited medical treatments under direction.
  • Insured by the MFR system.
  • Need less training and have a lower cost for certification.
  • Designed for basic medical services and volunteer roles.

For more information on First Responder training click here.

Back to top