Research on both sides of the globe shows that unmanageable workloads is the main reason why many ambulance service staff are considering quitting the profession.
So far, attempts to fix the emergency services crisis have largely involved short-term solutions without looking at the root causes.
When ambulances are delayed at overcrowded hospitals because they can’t offload patients, it means they can’t respond to emergency calls and people wait longer for paramedics to arrive.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn
Ambulance response times have not always met targets, but the alarming new pinch point in our health-care system is that there are no ambulances at all available to respond to calls.
With more than half a million notifications of suspected child maltreatment each year in Australia, we need to explore the better use of our health-care workforces to prevent maltreatment.
‘A “tripledemic” of flu, COVID and respiratory infections this winter could result into up to half of the available beds being occupied by patients.’
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Ambulance services are facing unfair criticism for a situation which is not of their making. The workforce is in crisis, with system-wide pressures seriously hampering their ability to do their jobs.
Adding more beds won’t fix emergency department pressures. Neither will one-size-fits-all processes. But improving patient flow and addressing staff shortages might.
Long lines of ambulances have hit the headlines in recent weeks. But ‘ramping’ isn’t a new problem for patients or paramedics. COVID means we must fix it now.
The public deserves an ambulance service that advocates for their staff and their patients, not the needs of politicians who want a simple number to demonstrate their effectiveness.
It’s not just because of higher exposure to traumatic events. It’s also toxic workplace culture and harmful management practices.
About 12% of insurers’ U.S. spending on in- and out-of-network medical care goes to six types of providers that commonly submit surprise bills.
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Erin Duffy, University of Southern California; Erin Trish, University of Southern California, and Loren Adler, University of Southern California
Surprise medical bills have led to financial pain and suffering on top of whatever ailed a patient in the first place. A recent study shows that the practice drives up costs for everyone.
Ambulance staff are often the first to attend the site of many difficult scenes.
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Immediate CPR and defibrillation can be key to surviving a cardiac arrest. A smartphone app is mobilising community responders who can help before emergency services arrive.
There are major differences – plus a few similarities – between the health promises from Labor, the Coalition and the Greens.
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