National Ambulance Project plans discussed

Interior Minister Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa yesterday held a meeting with Supreme Council of Health Chairman Lt-General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa to discuss latest  developments in the National Ambulance Project and evaluate readiness of its  infrastructure and final procedures.

The Interior Minister said that the project comes in response to meet public requirements  and developments in ambulance services and safety on par with global standard. 

He said that the project was an important part of the National Disaster Management Plan and for its success there was a need for good management and qualified manpower.  

Shaikh Rashid also emphasised the importance to seek international expertise and modern medical and emergency technology and get the views of concerned bodies to gradually implement the project.  

The Chief of Public Security, Major-General Tariq Al Hassan highlighted details about the project and its phases, manpower, training and operational plans. 

He said that a number of ambulances and medical equipment ordered were received, while special uniforms for paramedics and drivers are being prepared.  

Al Hassan also informed that 10 centres for ambulances in governorates and a control room are ready. 

Two ambulances will be allocated for government hospitals and King Fahd Causeway, each. This will bring the total centres to 14.

Al Hassan said a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on central ambulance service was signed between Bahrain and France on September 8, 2015, for which the French side will provide assistance in training, drafting work procedure guideline and consultation.