Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I agree with what the Minister said in terms of how highly skilled our advanced paramedic teams are and the level of care they provide at the scene of accidents and crashes. However, having examined this consultant-led model, I think it is one we need to look at because there are things consultants can provide that cannot be provided by advanced paramedics such as anaesthesia to protect the brain, blood transfusions and accessing major blood vessels to stop haemorrhaging, so it is something we should explore. It is in the space of road safety as well. As we have spoken about in many debates at committees and in this Chamber, the numbers of road deaths and serious injuries are going in the wrong direction again. It is incumbent on the State to do everything it can to provide the best possible health service and if that means consultant-led services at the scene of a crash or accident, I hope this State would be able to provide that.

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