NIAS looking at all options after decision

NORTHERN Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) has not ruled out the use of independent providers following the upcoming changes to emergency surgery at South West Acute Hospital (SWAH).

The Impartial Reporter sent a series of questions to NIAS.

In response, a NIAS spokesperson said: “NIAS has been engaging with the Western Trust for some time.”

Continuing, the spokesperson said:”these discussions have primarily been to identify what ambulance borne patients of a surgical presentation could continue to be brought to SWAH, and those that would need to bypass the Emergency Department.”

“We will continue to work with the Western

Trust to facilitate the temporary change they have been required to introduce, while at the same time seeking to minimise any impact on ambulance response times. Where necessary, we will supplement capacity with the use of independent providers.”