After years of lobbying and more than 30,000 signatures on a petition, Orange finally has a 24-hour medical helicopter.
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The funding for the helicopter was announced by Member for Orange Andrew Gee just moments ago.
NSW Ambulance Service data shows the number of patients who would benefit clinically from a 24-hour central west service is 85 per year, with the helicopter to fly approximately 435 trips per year.
Health Minister Jillian Skinner said Orange and surrounding communities will have access to round the clock aeromedical coverage with the establishment of a 24-hour base as part of the Reform Plan for Aeromedical (Rotary Wing) Retrieval Services in NSW.
“The NSW Government initiated an independent review into the state’s aeromedical services to ensure that patient needs are being met and taxpayers are getting value for money when it comes to these contracted services.
“Today I’m proud to release the NSW Government response to the independent review and public consultation, which is the second and final component of our Strategic Review of the Ambulance Service of NSW.
“For the first time in NSW, there will be a doctor and paramedic or doctor and nurse on every flight, from every base across the new Helicopter Retrieval Network.
Member for Orange Andrew Gee said the announcement was fantastic news for the communities of western NSW.
"It's been a long time coming but the wait is finally over. We're finally getting the retrieval service that the region deserves and that we've all worked so hard for.
"It's been a true community effort by the people of the west and I'd like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to achieve this result.
"The extension of the service is going to save lives. It won't matter the time of day or night. If you have an accident in western NSW or need urgent medical care - the helicopter from Orange will now be able to get to you - and fast,” Mr Gee said.
From January 2014, the new look Orange base will see:
* Medical and paramedical staff located on Base improving time to take off
* A 24-hour, 7 days per week operation
* New retrieval doctors (1.5 FTE) available for every flight
* New paramedics (2 FTE) dedicated to helicopter retrieval
* Improved training for staff
* Additional $2.5 million annual investment for helicopter retrieval services from the Orange helicopter Base from July 2014
A professional response
The Director of Intensive Care Services at the Orange Health Service, Dr John Lambert, also said he was very excited about the reforms.
"This is something we've been working towards for many years and I'm delighted it's finally going to become a reality.
"We should also keep in mind that the people it will benefit most are those in communities outside of Orange and across western NSW. This is tremendous news for them.
“Besides the opening of the new hospital at Orange, it's the biggest development in area trauma and critical care services for years,” Dr Lambert said.
NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Ray Creen welcomed the reforms to aeromedical services.
“NSW Ambulance has a proud tradition of delivering quality care to patients across the state and I am certain these reforms will enhance this service,” Mr Creen said.
“These changes will see more paramedics in the air to retrieve patients faster while being supported by doctors and nurses to deliver the highest quality emergency care to those who need it most.”
