The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Fife first responders say new technology could save lives
North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie has been listening to the concerns of local first responders about the delay in bringing in modern technology which could save lives across Scotland.
East Neuk First Responders have been lobbying the Scottish Ambulance Service to sign up to GoodSam which connects the ambulance service to hundreds of medically qualified local volunteers across the country.
The phone app can be used by appropriately trained volunteers to respond to life-saving emergencies.
Mr Rennie said: “Time matters in medical emergencies which is why it is important to utilise the extraordinary number of medically qualified people who could respond in their local community.
“The GoodSam app has been used in London for three years already and is now available in several parts of the UK. “It’s saving lives every day. “The Scottish Ambulance Service should be tapping into this great resource – using technology to connect the ambulance service to so many volunteers.
“If I was suffering a heart attack I would want to know that everything was being done immediately to save my life.
“If there was an off duty nurse in the neighbouring street who could assist I want them with me straight away.
“I want the Scottish Ambulance to make a swift decision on the use of this technology.
“Years on from its launch in London is long enough for Scotland to wait.”
The GoodSam app allows “alerters” to call for help, which dials the emergency services and simultaneously notifies nearby registered first-aiders who can perform CPR and use a defibrillator.