Ambulances to take up to 20 minutes for non-emergency cases as SCDF prioritises resources

Since March 2023, the SCDF operations centre has also been using the emergency video system to provide visual assistance for higher-priority cases.

SCDF added that it is looking at integrating video- and artificial intelligence-assisted triaging for all medical calls. 

It is also working with related agencies to develop alternative care service pathways such as telemedicine services and GP clinics that the public can visit instead of hospital emergency departments. 

Meanwhile, a six-month trial is also in the pipeline for a mobile pod at Jurong Lake Gardens in the fourth quarter of this year. 

Known as a dynamic deployment pod, it will allow SCDF to react quickly to surges in EMS calls at different areas across the country, it said. 

It also allows for quick deployment in newly built areas before a permanent base is established. 

“The reduced time required to secure approval for the use of outdoor spaces means that DDPs (dynamic deployment pods) can be operationalised faster compared to building new infrastructure or securing infrastructure in existing premises,” said SCDF. 

SCDF has also introduced the paramedicine expert track to increase manpower for emergency medical services, said Assoc Prof Faishal.

For now, 10 to 15 paramedics will be appointed as senior specialists – functioning as the “pillar” for SCDF to build knowledge in this field.

They will also be given additional opportunities to attend conferences and workshops to hone their knowledge and skills, conduct adjunct lectures to teach others as well as mentor younger officers.

“In recognition of their expertise, and additional contributions to SCDF, the senior specialists would be granted a skills allowance,” Assoc Prof Faishal said. 

TRAFFIC SIGNAL PRIORITY FOR AMBULANCES

SCDF also launched a new traffic priority system for emergency ambulances that are within the “final mile” when conveying a patient to a hospital. 

Ambulance drivers may at times need to run a red light under strict circumstances when handling life-threatening cases, SCDF said.

Having the traffic priority system in place at junctions near hospitals will thus reduce this need, it added.

The system, which is co-developed by the SCDF, Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Home Team Science and Technology Agency, uses an in-vehicle device to “activate priority passage” for ambulances at traffic junctions near hospitals.