New response vehicles for Gauteng EMS
The Gauteng MEC for Health, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko thanked the Green Angels (as Gauteng EMS are popularly known) for their heroism and determination to serve the people of Gauteng in spite of the many challenges they have to face last week.
SEDIBENG. – This was during the celebration of the Emergency Medical Service’ s(EMS) Day that was celebrated under the theme: “Paying tribute to EMS heroes for their selflessness and saving communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Although you rarely see the patient’s entire health care journey given that you are mainly providing the first point of care as you respond to various emergency calls, your job in the health eco system is critical. It truly is commendable how you manage to daily face trauma and tragedy, as well as life-or-death situations and still be able to show kindness, compassion, and the utmost professionalism,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The day was used to recognise EMS personnel through issuing of certificates, medals and trophies.
As part of improving patient experience of care Nkomo-Ralehoko also unveiled additional vehicles to bolster the Gauteng EMS’s response to emergency calls across the province. Thirty Obstetric / ICU Ambulances were handed to districts. Nkomo-Ralehoko said that the ambulances will help to relieve the pressure of maternal deaths and increasing service delivery needs at the high case load health facilities including private sector hospitals that refer patients to the public sector.
“These custom-made ambulances are resourced with state-of -the-art medical equipment to accommodate births that happen while transporting patients to hospital and have incubation capability.”
Another 25 G-SET vehicles (Gauteng Scheduled Emergency Transport) Ambulances) were also unveiled.
The Gauteng Department of Health said that under the G-SET operational model, hospitals will no longer be required to call EMS Communication Center when requiring transportation of stable patients as there will be regular shuttle in between facilities. Other vehicles that were unveiled during EMS Day include 20 rescue response bakkies which have capabilities to enter hard to reach areas especially during rainy seasons.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the vehicles could not have come at the right time as the Department is now gearing up for the holiday season and festive period which usually results in Gauteng EMS responding to an increased number of emergencies.
