Ambulance Officer Unions presenting submission

Federation of Ambulance Officer Unions of New Zealand (FAOUNZ)

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Ambulance Officer Unions presenting submission to Health Select Committee

The Federation of Ambulance Officer Unions of New Zealand (FAOUNZ) are presenting their submission to the Health Select Committee reviewing the provision of ambulance services in New Zealand.

FAOUNZ Secretary Karl Andersen says that the FAOUNZ submission entitled “Ambulance - An Emergency Service in Crisis” critically examines the effectiveness of the provision of ambulance services and identifies possible improvements in the performance and regulatory framework.

“FAOUNZ believes there is a clear need for more funding to go into ambulance including a review of the funding models,” he says. “The continued use of single crewed ambulances is a dangerous practice that involves considerable risk to the public, patient and Paramedic.”

Mr Andersen says that FAOUNZ ultimately desires a well resourced nationally consistent third emergency service.

“This will require a commitment to increasing the educational requirements of Paramedics, professional registration, providing a regulatory framework for ambulance services and promoting greater public accountability.”

ENDS

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