David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

2144. To ask the Minister for Health her views on the inclusion of doctors in the prehospital crewing model of the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services in Ireland; if there have been any studies or pilots conducted to examine the matter, or if any are ongoing; the details of such studies or pilots, including methodology and parameters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44861/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) provides two dedicated Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) in Ireland: one is based in Athlone, operated with the Irish Air Corps and primarily serves the West and North-West of the country; and the second service is based in Rathcoole, Co Cork primarily serving the South-West.

Both HEMS provide fast access to lifesaving prehospital emergency care interventions at the scene by highly trained pre-hospital practitioners, with the focus being on rapid access for patients to the most appropriate clinical care.

Additional HEMS support is provided to the NAS by the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG), on an ‘as available’ basis from four bases located in Shannon, Dublin, Sligo and Waterford.

In regard to the Deputy's specific inquiry concerning studies, examinations or pilots into the medical crewing of HEMS in Ireland, as this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy with any further pertinent information it may have.