Examination of clinical outcomes will be a key part of Air Ambulance review – Feighan

Fine Gael TD for Roscommon/South Leitrim, Frank Feighan, has welcomed confirmation given to him by the Department of Health that the examination of clinical outcomes will be a central feature in the review of the pilot Air Ambulance service (Emergency Aeromedical Service).

“The Department of Health has made it clear to me that the objective of the EAS’ review is to examine operational data. A key part of this is the examination of clinical outcomes, with a view to agreeing recommendations on the future provision of the service. The purpose of the 12 month pilot  programme launched in June last year was to assess the level of emergency air support needed to assist the National Ambulance Service in the West of Ireland for certain types of patient.

“Of course, like any review of a service, it will also determine the need for and cost of an EAS service. It is abundantly clear, given the evidence since its launch almost a year ago, that there is a demand for this service in the region and I believe priority must be given in the review to turning this pilot programme into a permanent service.

“As has already been previously outlined, the review will be conducted by the EAS Audit and Evaluation Group, as set out in the Memorandum of Understanding. This group comprises representatives from the HSE National Ambulance Service, the Air Corps and the Departments of Health and Defence. I also understand the group may seek external expertise if required.

“The Department of Health has informed me that the review, which commenced at the start of March, is expected to be completed before the end of the pilot service this June. Criteria for the review have been prepared and will be included in the completed report to the Minister for Health.

“Finally, despite unfounded speculation that the Air Ambulance base will be moved from Athlone to Tullamore, the Department of Health has advised me that all recommendations on the operation of the EAS in the future will be contained in the report to the Minister.”