Better training for ambulance drivers

PETALING JAYA: All ambulance drivers under the Health Ministry are required to undergo an improved ambulance driving training course, which includes a first responder course.

In a ministry circular dated May 15, director-general Datuk Seri Dr Hasanabdul Rahman said in view of the development of pre-hospital services, ambulance drivers could no longer be considered mere vehicle drivers.

“They must be considered in the responder category, capable of giving first responder basic treatment and with credentials to drive an ambulance safely even in bad weather and road conditions.

“For the drivers to execute their job as skilled responders confidently, their training has to cover medical aspects as well as driving skills,” he said.

The ministry’s guidelines that accompanied

It is to train them to be capable of handling everyday situations, especially in primary response or critical care transfer. — MINISTRY’S GUIDELINES

the circular, state that the training is to ensure the drivers would be able to help medical officers in treating the patient at the scene before heading to a hospital.

“It is to train them to be capable of handling everyday situations, especially in primary response or critical care transfer,” it said.

The three-day first responder course included ergonomics of response, service ethics and policies, basic life support and basic trauma management.

The drivers are required to undergo a twoday safety driving module that focuses on injury prevention and defensive driving techniques.

The ministry said the improved guidelines would be effective immediately.

St John Ambulance Malaysia commanderin-chief Datuk Dr Low Bin Tick lauded the move.

“If the drivers are alone to respond to a call, they will be able to give on-the-spot treatment instead of merely ‘picking up and running’ to a hospital.

“Emergency ambulance services will improve as the drivers can help stabilise the patients, which could make a difference between life and death,” he said.