Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2020
573. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health his future plans regarding the provision of a reliable paramedic and emergency response service for the Athlone area; and if an air ambulance service will continue to form an integral part of this plan. [2801/20]
View answerThe National Ambulance Service is the statutory provider of ambulance services in the state. The NAS provides a wide range of pre-hospital care services to the public, including Emergency Medical Transfer, an Intermediate Care Service and the coordination of first responder schemes. The NAS also operates the nationwide Emergency Aeromedical Service, in conjunction with the Air Corps, from the Custume Barracks base in Athlone.
The National Ambulance Service is currently undergoing significant reform in line with its strategic plan, Vision 2020, which was published in 2016. Vision 2020 is informed by the 2014 HIQA Review of Ambulance Services and the 2016 NAS Baseline and Capacity Review, which recommended reforms to improve performance. In line with Vision 2020, a significant programme of work is underway to transform the NAS from an emergency medical service into a mobile medical service.
Regarding your specific query in relation to services in Athlone, I have referred your question to the HSE.
