HSE changes to ambulance services in West Cork will help save lives – Harrington

Fine Gael TD for Cork South West, Noel Harrington, has welcomed confirmation by the HSE of the upcoming changes to the ambulances service in West Cork, which he says will better service the people of the region and help to save lives.

“The plans announced by the HSE to modernise the National Ambulance Service operations in the region encompass many changes that will make the speedy delivery of medical attention to those in need more achievable. The changes will ensure the retention of four ambulances, while providing for an enhanced Advanced Paramedic Transport Ambulance in Bantry and a non-emergency routine transfer ambulance, which is also to be based in Bantry.

“Most notably the change from the provision of an ‘on-call’ service at night to ‘on-duty’ in all cases is a hugely positive step which will enhance the ambulance service in West Cork and which should comply with the HIQA standards for responses. Ensuring that people in remote areas, such as West Cork, have timely access to adequate pre-hospital emergency care is key to saving lives, especially where chronic cases, such as heart attacks, exist. These changes will be greatly helped by the addition of nine additional Paramedic Staff throughout West Cork. The fact that West Cork is to be further supported by Cork city resources, as well as by resources that will be deployed from South Kerry, means that those who are in need of medical attention will be better placed to receive it.

“West Cork is unique; the geographical challenge that was presented to the HSE has now been acknowledged by these upcoming changes I wish to thank the HSE for its work and diligence in this regard, and the efforts made to deliver better services within existing budgets. GPs, public representatives and community groups who contributed to this process are also to be commended for the part they have played in delivering a better healthcare service for the people of West Cork. By making our services more efficient, and ensuring the continuation of all existing ambulance stations, the people of the regions medical needs can and will be met.

“Recognition must also go to the co-operation of the staff, to implement these changes, which are expected to be rolled out later next month. These new changes, along with the provision of an expanded Air Ambulance Service through the Irish Coast Guard, should help to reassure the people of West Cork that their emergency/paramedic requirements will continue to be met and improved into the future.”

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