AAHP Union says Critical Changes Needed in the Provincial Air Ambulance System
ST. JOHN’S, NL – Gordon Piercey, President of the Association of Allied Health Professionals (AAHP) is calling for critical changes to the Provincial Air Ambulance Service. Speaking on behalf of the highly skilled health professionals who provide care for patients during medical air transports, Piercey says “It’s time now for Government to act and address critical shortages and working conditions for Medical Flight Specialists that could also help improve efficiencies and health outcomes. This is a win-win opportunity.”
Mr. Piercey notes that many discussions of public services, focus on inefficiencies and privatization, including those about the air ambulance service. He says “There is no doubt that changes are needed to this essential service, to ensure it is sustainable and accessible for all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Our air ambulance service is about more than airplanes and a mode of transportation – it is about saving lives and improving patient outcomes.”
“Our provincial air ambulance service, and the dedicated health professionals that work within it are an integral component of public tertiary health care for all Newfoundland and Labradorians. We are extremely proud to be able to represent this group of about 24 highly-specialized, public health care professionals who are responsible for the care of thousands of patients each year from all corners of the province, many who are in critical situations.”
According to Mr. Piercey, his Members have in-depth insights about the air ambulance services and have long raised recommendations and opportunities for program improvements. “Here we have a small, dedicated group of professionals who work tirelessly to provide emergency care, 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Without fail, they are always ready to respond to critical, high pressure situations and able to draw on their advanced paramedic and nursing qualifications and extensive emergency experience to make sure their patients safely get the health services they need.” Unfortunately, given the excessive workloads and ongoing workplace challenges he is fearful the service is at critical risk.
Mr. Piercey states that there are many examples of priority issues within the air ambulance service, including the need for better working conditions for his Members who are more exhausted and demoralized than ever. “These professionals are delivering critical health services thousands of feet in the air. They signed on for these jobs because they want to help save lives. We all need to count on them to be there complex, emergency, life and death situations, but unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in resignations right now among this group due to their working conditions. I am worried we won’t be able to keep this essential service running without immediate action.”
Mr. Piercey is calling upon Government to act sooner than later. He says the issues are known, as are the solutions, and time is critical. He is asking Government to do what needs to be done, to ensure the sustainability and quality of our essential provincial air ambulance service.