The NHS is weakened through inefficiency and lack of resources, with some clinics or trusts more affected than others.

One recent report highlights a significant problem across the ambulance services in the UK; many patients should be treated at the scene or in some cases referred to other services instead of being taken to A&E.

This accumulative exhaustion of resources, in both staffing and the usage of the ambulances, is costing the NHS over £300m per year whilst delivering what is ultimately poor patient care.

The blame, however, cannot be placed solely on the hard-working paramedics. These individuals work tirelessly to save lives every day, but they are not always adequately equipped to carry out optimal patient assessment at the scene.

With at least 32 different types of ambulance ranging in age and capabilities, it’s not always possible for the crew to take advantage of technology In many situations the casualty may not be fully lucid; therefore, with no access to their information paramedics are unable to make an informed decision and off to A&E they go.

Another possibility in this scenario is being extremely far from the nearest hospital, which in a critical situation forces a paramedic to administer treatment to the best of their knowledge and resources. In both scenarios, MedicAlert membership could prove vital if you have any allergies or health conditions such as an ICD heart implant or Advance Decision.

Being able to inform a paramedic of current medication, recent operations or additional relevant medical history would allow them to make quicker and better decisions.

In the end, providing these front-line saviours with the best possible tools is what will help us all. Decreasing time wasted on both ends of the patient journey, ensuring accuracy and promoting innovation will play a great part in supporting the NHS.

READ MORE:

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45628083  
• http://www.nationalhealthexecutive.com/Robot-News/carter-review-vital-improvements-to-technology-and-ambulance-fleets-needed-for-savings-