Rapid response ambulance servicein Tipperary and Clare may be ended

There are fears the provision of essential rapid response emergency ambulance services could be discontinued in Tipperary and Clare.

The National Ambulance Service has confirmed it is reviewing the provision of rapid response vehicles in both counties.

The vehicles, staffed by advanced paramedic staff, were introduced in the mid-west in 2009 as part of a HSE reconfiguration of hospital services which saw the A&E departments at Nenagh and Ennis hospitals close at night. Advanced paramedics are specially trained in advanced life support skills and can administer drugs and treatments which other paramedics can’t.

When originally launched, the HSE touted the service as ‘A&E on the road’ and a natural progression in the enhancement and development of the ambulance service in the mid-west.

It’s understood a meeting between ambulance paramedics and management has already taken place in Co Tipperary. A HSE spokesman confirmed: “As part of its continuous assessment of operational performance to improve patient-care service provision, the National Ambulance Service has commenced a review in the Mid West region. This review will include the provision of rapid response vehicles operated by Advanced Paramedics in north Tipperary and Clare.

“As the review has only recently commenced, no decision will be made until all aspects of the Mid West review are finalised,” the HSE said.

Clare Independent TD, Dr Michael Harty has said he hopes any review findings would strengthen the service.

“The National Ambulance Review of the provision of advanced paramedic rapid response units in the Mid West is important, but like any review there is a concern that there may be a reduction or discontinuation of this essential service.”