First Magazine Issue 17 | Women in Leadership Symposium Edition Spring 24

ISSUE 17 | SPRING 2024

Dr. Erica Kreismann From Brooklyn to the Bass Strait.

Ambulance Tasmania's Executive Medical Director

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE The winning projects

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP Meet the finalists

www.caa.net.au

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Dear friends and colleagues, Welcome to the summer edition of FIRST. As we embrace the warmer months, the CAA office is as vibrant and active as ever, particularly with the upcoming Women in Leadership Symposium and the conclusion of another remarkable year.

This issue features an insightful conversation with Erica Kreismann, Executive Medical Director at Ambulance Tasmania. We are fortunate to share Erica's career journey and how her experiences have shaped her leadership style and future aspirations.

Following the positive reception from our previous issue, we again explore the role of AI in the Ambulance Sector and showcase some of our most popular posters from this year's Congress.

As always, we love our feelgood stories across our Australasian member services and highlight the heroes in our communities. With Restart a Heart Day in the rear-view mirror, we’ve touch on the activations from across our member services.

In this edition, we spotlight our partners' events as we enter the conference season. The CAA team has been actively participating in conferences throughout Australasia, fostering relationships and staying informed about the latest industry developments.

As we approach the year's end, the CAA team is diligently compiling, analysing, and sharing the information you value. Be sure to check our website and social media for updates on the upcoming Annual Report and Patient Experience Survey.

Lastly, we are thrilled with the overwhelming feedback from Congress and extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved—supporters, attendees, contributors, and organisers. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the Women in Leadership Symposium in November, where we will announce our 2024 Women in Leadership Scholarship winners.

On behalf of the CAA team, enjoy reading about our year in review and the year ahead.

Love,

Mojca Bizjak-Mikic Editor-in-Chief FIRST magazine

Contents ISSUE 17 | SPRING 2024

12 03

Letter from the Editor

06

Socials First See how to speak with our member services.

08

Data First 2024 CAA Patient Experience Survey.

10

Industry First

40

52

23

Focus First CAA Awards for Excellence Winners - learn more about the winning projects from this years Awards for Excellence.

40

Opinion First Fiona Windsor, 2023 winner of the Women in Leadership Symposium shares her year in reflection.

43

Awards First Meet the 2024 Women in Leadership Scholarship finalists.

Read the latest news from across the sector.

12

CAA First Insights and relevant updates for the ambulance and emergency sector including a 2024 CAA Congress wrap up, Women in Ambulance Development Program launch, National Rural Health Conference summary and CAA group updates.

44

Services First Showcasing the latest projects and achievements from across CAA member services.

52

Feature First FIRST speaks with Ambulance Tasmania's Executive Medical Director Dr. Erica Kreismann on her journey from Brooklyn NY across the Bass Strait to Tasmania.

4

www.caa.net.au

60

82

90

60

82

Learn more about what to expect at the 2025 IRCP in Adelaide as well as what happened across Australasia for Restart a Heart Day.

Sustainability in Ambulance Services White Paper.

Events First

Sustainability First

66

86

People First Meet just some of the wonderful people that make up the Australasian Ambulance services.

Partners First In this edition of FIRST, we share articles from the Australasian College of Paramedicine, EMS Congress as well as a summary of conference the CAA team have recently attended.

88

The Directory

70

90

Research First Sharing the latest innovative research projects from around the ambulance world.

Wellness First Thrive in the career we love with Mitch Mullooly.

THE TEAM

PUBLISHED BY:

Editor: Mojca Bizjak-Mikic Relationship and Content Manager: Georgie Leach Editorial Team: Georgie Leach & Kieren Vartuli Publication Design: Kade Marsh, Alpha State

The Council Of Ambulance Authorities 2/141 Sir Donald Bradman Drive Hilton SA 5033 Australia admin@caa.net.au

Magazine published from paper that is sustainably sourced.

For article submissions or to advertise in FIRST by CAA magazine please contact admin@caa.net.au

5

Social First

Stay up to date across Australasia

ACT Ambulance Service

Ambulance Tasmania

Ambulance Victoria

esa.act.gov.au/ambulance

ambulance.tas.gov.au

ambulance.vic.gov.au

ACT Emergency Services Agency ACT Ambulance Service, ACT Emergency Services Agency

Ambulance Tasmania

Ambulance Victoria

Ambulance Tasmania

Ambulance Victoria

@AmbulanceTas

@ambulancevic

ACT_ESA

@AmbulanceVic AmbulanceVic

6

Hato Hone St John

NSW Ambulance

Queensland Ambulance Service

stjohn.org.nz

ambulance.nsw.gov.au

ambulance.qld.gov.au

Hato Hone St John

NSW Ambulance

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)

Hato Hone St John

NSW Ambulance

Queensland Ambulance Service

@stjohnnz

@NSWAmbulance

@qldambulance

@stjohnnz

@NSWAmbulance

@QldAmbulance

StJohnNZ

nswambulance9025

@Queensland AmbulanceService

www.caa.net.au

SA Ambulance Service saambulance.com.au

St John Ambulance Australia (NT)

National St John Ambulance Papua New Guinea

stjohnnt.org.au

stjohn.org.pg

SA Ambulance Service St John NT

National St John Ambulance Service PNG

St John NT

National St John Ambulance Service Papua New Guinea

@stjohnnt

st_john_png

@Stjohnnt

@StJohnAmbPNG

@stjohnnt2691

@SJAPNG

St John WA

Wellington Free Ambulance

stjohnwa.com.au

wfa.org.nz

Council of Ambulance Authorities

SA Ambulance Service SA_Ambulanceservice SA_Ambulance saambulanceservice1

caa.net.au St John WA

Wellington Free Ambulance

St John WA

Wellington Free Ambulance

@stjohnwa

@wellington_free

SA_Ambulance

@wellingtonfreeambulance

The Council of Ambulance Authorities @CAAAustralasia

@StJohnWA

The Council of Ambulance Authorities Inc. Council of Ambulance Authorities

7

Data First

Patient Experience Survey 2024 T

he 2024 Patient Experience Survey Report offers an in-depth look at how patients across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea experience ambulance services.

Conducted by the Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA), this report focuses on understanding patient satisfaction, gauging the quality of service, and identifying areas for improvement. Collecting and analysing patient feedback not only highlights the current performance but also guides ambulance services in enhancing patient care quality.

Findings on Patient Satisfaction

Experience with Call Takers

important for the CAA as it provides

Overall satisfaction remains

takers were positive, with 67% of

a direct line to patient experiences,

high, with 97% of respondents in

Australian respondents noting

allowing for informed decision-

Australia and 96% in New Zealand

quicker-than-expected connection

making to enhance service quality.

indicating they were either "very

times. Additionally, 94% of

Since ambulance services operate in

satisfied" or "satisfied" with their

Australian patients rated call takers

high-stakes, often life-threatening

experience. In Papua New Guinea,

as helpful and reassuring, while

situations, patient satisfaction

satisfaction sits at 93%. Most

90% in New Zealand and 84% in

plays a vital role in evaluating their

Australian and New Zealand

Papua New Guinea rated them

effectiveness. Patients’ perceptions

patients rated their satisfaction

similarly. In Australia, less than

offer insights into how well these

levels as “very satisfied,” with

1% of respondents felt that call

services meet their needs in terms

83% and 88% respectively.

takers were unhelpful.

Importance of the Survey The Patient Experience Survey is

Patient interactions with call

of timeliness, quality of care, and comfort. This data helps identify the strengths of each service and areas for improvement, providing a foundation for developing actionable strategies to boost patient care.

8

www.caa.net.au

Ambulance Arrival Times

Australia

The report highlights differences in wait times across regions. In Australia, 63% of

100

99%

97%

96%

95%

100

99

98%

88%

87%

86%

85%

100%

99%

98%% 90

97%% 89

96%% 88

80% Paramedics received high marks

79%

78%

76%

75%

for their quality of care. In Australia,

90%

89%

88 % New80 Zealand %

87%% 79

% 86 78%

68%% 97 79%

67%% 96 78%% 70

66%% 95 77%% 69

65% 94% 76%% 68

57% 86% 68%% 60

respondents said the ambulance % arrived

quicker than they expected. In New Zealand, 60% reported quicker than expected arrivals, while in Papua New Guinea, 32% shared this sentiment. Most Australian patients waited less than 30 minutes for % an ambulance, with satisfaction around

90

89%

arrival times ranging between 50% and 71%, depending on the state.

Quality of Care Provided

by Paramedics

98% of respondents rated the care as either

98%

% % of respondents were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their experience.

of respondents rated their care % good". as "good" or "very

77

“good” or “very good.” In Papua New Guinea, 83% of patients rated their experience % positively. % In both Australia%and Papua New Guinea, around 1% of patients rated their

69%% 98 80% care as poor, demonstrating consistently high 100

70 99

levels of satisfaction with paramedic services.

Confidence in Paramedics

60 89

% % % Australian patients displayed strong

90

confidence in paramedics, with 94% expressing high levels of trust.

of patients rated their ride as "comfortable".

59% 88% 70%

58%% 87 69%

56% 85% 67%% 59

55% 84% 66%% 58

49%% 78 60%

reported "quicker % 48%%of respondents 47 46%% % arrivals. than expected" 77 76 75 % % 59 58% 57%% 50 49

45%% 74 56%% 48

38%%% 67 94 49%% 95

35%%% 64 91 46%%% 38 92

In Papua New Guinea, 69% expressed high confidence in paramedic care. % % %

50 80 79Comfort Communication and During Transport Australian patients reported clear

Papua New Guinea

communication from paramedics,

8

%

9%

40 69 96

39%%% 70 68 97 95 and treatment. Respondents from New 50% % 98%and Papua New97 96% Zealand Guinea also had high with 96% indicating they understood % % % % % explanations provided about their condition

ratings, with 87% and 85% of respondents

8

%

89%

affirming clarity in communication, % respectively.

Comfort during % % transport was % % generally rated well, with 92% of Australian

29%%% 58 85 % patients%and 96% of New Zealand patients40% % 88 87 86 indicating comfort. In Papua New Guinea, 60 87

30 59 86

37%%% 66 93 48%%% 40 94

36%%% 65 92 47%%% 39 93

of respondents were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with their experience. % % % % % % % % %

28 57 84 39%% 85

27 56 83 38%%% 30 84

26 55 82 37%%% 29 83

25%%% 54 81 36%%% 28 82

% 18%%% of patients rated 17%%their % call takers 16% 47 as helpful46 45% and reassuring.

74 73 72 % 29%% 28%%% 27 20 19%% 75 74 73

15%%% 44 71 % 26 18%%9 72

68% rated the ride as comfortable.

8%

% %

50 77

20%%% 49 76

9%

78%

77%

19%%% 48 75 30%% 76

Industry First

Industry News

Sydney Olympic Park New Addition NSW Ambulance Throughout September, NSW Ambulance unveiled their state-of-the-art Ambulance Education Centre located at Sydney Olympic Park. With education tools available such as replica ambulances and simulation rooms, NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan believes that this facility can get paramedics “as ready as they can possibly be before hitting the road.”

10

Ambulance Victoria are going AWD Ambulance Victoria

Read More

A new ambulance is being trialled in Mildura, with Ambulance Victoria putting an all-wheel-drive (AWD) stretcher ambulance to the test. The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance appears to be the same as the remaining Ambulance Victoria fleet, but this one is approximately elevated 100mm higher.

This vehicle will be used for all regular on-road emergency case responses, but also on a wider range of road conditions where required.

Hato Hone St John Tick of Approval

Onesie-ful Results for the Onesie Appeal

Hato Hone St John

Wellington Free Ambulance

Hato Hone St John received their Accessibility Tick during September from the New Zealand Disability Employers’ Network. This accreditation showcases that an employer has the tools to “support and provide accessibility options to those with disabilities or differences like neurodiversity”.

The Wellington Free Ambulance Onesie Appeal has finished for 2024. After a stellar fundraising campaign boasting 450 collection volunteers, over 520 hours on the streets of Wellington and Wairarapa and close to 200 fundraisers, the campaign raised an incredible $234,000 (approximately).

www.caa.net.au

SAAS On Track for Reaccreditation SA Ambulance Service Since 2017, SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) has been accredited as a White Ribbon Workplace. White Ribbon Australia are part of a global movement to eliminate gendered violence and promote gender equality.

SA Ambulance has a zero-tolerance policy regarding men’s violence in the workplace and the community, and since June 2024, SAAS has been working towards White Ribbon Australia reaccreditation. SA Ambulance Service is scheduled to complete reaccreditation in 2025 which will include using their current practices to the framework required.

St John WA Hosts Tiny Tots First Aid Courses St John WA

Read More

St John WA and Playgroup WA have teamed up for a free first aid course for new parents during September.

Six parents had the opportunity to learn first aid to assist a toddler, infant or child in an emergency.

This course is the beginning of a partnership between both St John WA and Playgroup WA which aims to spread first aid knowledge to parents. This has come to fruition after a national survey revealed that almost half of the respondents said that they did not feel confident to act in an emergency.

Moreton District Ambulance Station Opens

Toys Galore

Queensland Ambulance Service

The Queensland Ambulance Service and its community answered the toy donation call for the Children’s Hospital Foundation. The Jimboomba station ran the campaign for sick or injured children in hospital and finished with some incredible results.

Lawnton Ambulance Station is now open after Member for Pine Rivers, Nikki Boyd and Queensland Ambulance Service Deputy Commissioner Dee Taylor-Dutton attended the opening ceremony on the 25th of September. The brand-new facility will assist the bustling Moreton community and support 16 Paramedics as well as 4 Patient Transport Officers.

Queensland Ambulance Service

11

CAA First

Congress Wrap up The 2024 CAA Congress, held in Melbourne, brought together leaders, innovators, and professionals from across the ambulance and emergency services sectors.

As one of the most significant events on the calendar for the industry, this year’s Congress explored leadership excellence, clinical advancements, and the future of emergency management.

The theme, Inspire, Innovate, Elevate, guided the presentations and discussions, setting the stage for thoughtful conversations around how to continuously improve ambulance services.

12

www.caa.net.au

13

CAA First

T

his year’s Congress was notable for its inclusivity, featuring speakers from both within and outside the ambulance services sector.

This diverse range of voices enriched the dialogue

The Clinical Excellence segment highlighted the evolution

and provided a broad spectrum of perspectives on

of ambulance services in improving patient outcomes.

leadership, innovation, and best practices in emergency

Dr. Claire Bertenshaw (Deputy Medical Director,

management. Attendees included industry leaders,

Queensland Ambulance Service) presented on the

healthcare professionals, and representatives from

multidisciplinary advancements in ambulance services

various organisations, all contributing to an engaging

aimed at improving patient outcomes.

and comprehensive exchange of ideas aimed at shaping the future of ambulance services.

A/Prof Gayle Christie (Medical Director, St John WA) shared her experience using the NEWS2 early warning

The three-day event, which took place from Wednesday,

system to improve patient care, underscoring its

14th of August, to Friday, 16th of August, was packed

significant impact on patient safety.

with insightful sessions, interactive networking opportunities, and live demonstrations. The Congress began with a Welcome Reception at Rivers Edge Events, a vibrant gathering that provided a relaxed environment for attendees to network and build relationships.

This initial event set a collaborative tone that carried throughout the Congress, ensuring that participants had ample opportunities to share ideas and experiences.

The Leadership Excellence session kicked off with Anna Parry (Managing Director, Association of Ambulance Chief Executives), who delivered a powerful presentation on the UK's efforts to combat misogyny and improve sexual safety within ambulance services.

Brendan Brodie-Hall (Chief Emergency Officer, St John WA) shared his journey from the mining sector to ambulance leadership, offering insightful lessons from his transition. Jordan Emery (CEO, Ambulance Tasmania) emphasised the importance of compassionate leadership in transforming organisational culture.

The session concluded with a panel of experts discussing

In the Future Approach to Disasters sessions, Dr. Tony Smith (Medical Director, Hato Hone St John), Chris Harrison (National Operations Manager – Hazardous Area Response, Hato Hone St John), and Erica van Ash (PhD Candidate, CBRN Health Systems and Security) shared insights on leveraging past experiences to prepare for future crises. Rob Elliot (CEO, SA Ambulance Service) led a panel discussion on the future of disaster response and preparedness.

This year’s Congress featured unique and powerful stories from around the world. One of the highlights was a presentation from National St John Ambulance Papua New Guinea (PNG), one of CAA’s 11 member services. The presentation offered attendees a detailed look at the realities of ambulance services in PNG, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by paramedics in the region. The session was an eye-opener for many, revealing the everyday battles fought by healthcare professionals in resource-limited settings.

strategies for effective leadership in the sector.

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www.caa.net.au

View Photos

Crisis management lessons from Turkey’s devastating

The CAA thanks all partners and exhibitors

earthquakes and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine were

for their support; Congress wouldn’t have been

among the most moving presentations of the Congress.

possible without them.

These sessions highlighted the resilience of emergency services personnel in the face of extreme adversity and underscored the critical need for effective crisis management strategies.

The prestigious awards ceremony took place during the Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner on August 15, as part of the annual CAA Congress at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. As at all CAA

Susi Tegen (Chief Executive of the National Rural Health

Congress’, the Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner was

Alliance) delivered an insightful presentation on the

one of the most exciting aspects of Congress. Nominees

importance of rural healthcare. She discussed the role

in different categories were thrilled to celebrate

of ambulance services in bridging healthcare gaps in

their wins for innovative projects and outstanding

remote areas and the pressing need to focus on rural

contributions. This year saw nearly 50 submissions from

health as part of broader healthcare reform efforts.

ambulance services across Australasia, highlighting

In addition to keynote speakers, the Congress offered a range of concurrent sessions that allowed attendees to tailor their experience to their interests. Topics included trial results, culturally safe ambulance services, sustainable ambulance initiatives, paramedic education and research, quality improvement strategies, and much more. These sessions provided a wealth of information on the latest developments in ambulance services, offering something for everyone.

The exhibition floor was a bustling hub of activity, with partners and exhibitors showcasing innovations in ambulance equipment and solutions. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with suppliers, explore new technologies, and discuss real-world challenges with industry experts. The exhibition hall featured research posters, allowing participants to stay up to date on ongoing research projects in the sector. These

a highly competitive selection process. Winners were chosen by an independent panel of industry experts, showcasing the exceptional dedication and creativity of ambulance professionals in the region. Categories included Excellence in Technology, Clinical Practice, Staff Development, Patient Care, Leadership, and Mental Health and Wellbeing, with the standout Star Award winner being the Falls Co-Response Program by Queensland Ambulance Service.

With the 2024 CAA Congress now behind us, we eagerly look forward to the next gathering in Adelaide. Tickets for the 2025 CAA Congress and IRCP (Internation Round Table on Community Paramedicine) will soon be available, offering another opportunity to engage, innovate, and shape the future of ambulance services. Mark your calendars and get ready to be part of this exciting event.

interactions facilitated networking and knowledge sharing, further enhancing the Congress experience.

Tickets for 2025 CAA Congress and IRCP will be on sale early December 2024.

15

CAA First

Women in Ambulance Development Program

T

he CAA is excited to announce the launch of the Women in Ambulance Development Program, an initiative aimed at empowering and elevating women professionals within the ambulance sector.

This program is part of a broader strategy to enhance

The initiative invites emerging leaders to join the

leadership opportunities for emerging leaders, fostering

Women in Ambulance (WIA) group for a two-year

professional growth, networking, and skill development.

mandate, during which they will engage in a tailored

In response to a review of the CAA Women in Ambulance Forum membership, this program aims to provide an enriching experience for participants.

program designed to refine their leadership skills.

The candidate selection process was managed by individual CAA ambulance member services, each conducting a dedicated judging process. As a result, each service introduced one candidate, culminating in a total of 11.

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www.caa.net.au

Key objectives of this program include: Professional Advancement: Participants will benefit from specialised training and workshops that enhance their understanding of industry practices and strategic decision-making, enabling them to ascend in their careers. Participants will have the opportunity to visit the CAA head office annually for interactive workshops

Networking Opportunities: The program will foster a robust network of women in the ambulance sector, promoting knowledge-sharing through events and forums that encourage collaboration and collective excellence. Participants will engage in key industry events, including Women in Leadership Forums and the CAA Congress, enhancing their professional networks.

led by industry experts in areas such as marketing,

The Women in Ambulance Development Program

management, and research.

represents a significant step towards fostering a diverse

Mentorship and Guidance: A cornerstone of the program, mentorship will connect participants with experienced professionals. The CAA has selected 11 experienced mentors with proven leadership achievements to conduct one-on-one mentoring sessions. Through these personalised mentoring sessions,

and inclusive workplace within the ambulance sector.

By investing in women's professional growth, the CAA aims to enhance talent retention, satisfaction, and the overall reputation of the industry. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future for women in ambulance services.

participants will receive invaluable insights and support to nurture their leadership capabilities. Each participant will be paired with a mentor for one-on-one sessions every two months, complemented by group mentoring opportunities with guest presenters.

17

CAA First

17th National Rural Health Conference

By Susi Tegan

T

he 17th National Rural Health Conference was held 16-18 September 2024 at the Perth Convention and

Exhibition Centre. With a theme

The conference, held on the lands of the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation, began Monday morning with a heartfelt welcome from Emeritus Professor Dr. Len Collard.

of Imagine, Inspire & Innovate,

Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen welcomed delegates and used the

participants dove deep into

opening plenary to announce the National Rural Health Alliance’s

discussions crucial for advancing

new campaign for a 10-year National Rural Health Strategy, aligning

health outcomes in Australia’s

with the National Health Reform Agreement and aiming for the

rural and remote areas. Topics

establishment of a $1 billion National Rural Health Fund. This initiative

ranged from workforce

represents a significant commitment to addressing the stark $6.5 billion

sustainability to innovative health

underspend in rural health services. The announcement was made

service delivery, highlighting the

in front of the Hon Emma McBride, Assistant Minister for Rural and

unique challenges and needs of

Regional Health and the nearly 800 delegates in the Riverside Theatre

rural and remote communities.

at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The conference provided an

The Assistant Minister provided an update to delegates on the Federal

environment for delegates to catch

government’s reforms and reviews, as well as their health funding

up with colleagues not seen in a

priorities. She was followed by keynote speaker Yemi Penn who ignited

while and opportunities for them

delegates’ Rebellious Curiosity and had them thinking about how they

to take healthy breaks for their

can question the status quo in their professional and personal lives.

mental and emotional health through engagement with the Arts & Health stream.

18

Program

Their story and featured song

This led perfectly into our

highlighted the joy of coming

international keynote speaker

together to care for the environment

April Kyle who, as the CEO of

and provided delegates with a sense

the Southcentral Foundation,

of hope for the future. This theme

presented from her office in

continued through the next two

Anchorage, Alaska. April provided

keynote speakers who provided

stories and examples from the Nuka

their own inspirational stories of

System of Care which focuses not

advocating for health care on the

only on a customer-owner’s physical

ground. Timmy Duggan’s Hoops

health, but also their emotional,

for Health stood out as a prime

mental, familial and spiritual health.

example of how local initiatives can

She challenged delegates to think

lead to significant health and social

of new ways to look at the broader

benefits, underscoring the theme of

picture of health care and innovate

community-driven innovation. And

even within a highly regulated

Dr Sonia Henry took delegates with

environment.

her on a journey of self-discovery as she travelled from inner city doctor to rural healthcare advocate.

After morning tea in the exhibition hall where the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s sponsored coffee cart was

Monday’s concurrent streams

WAYJO, the Western Australian

the main attraction, again delegates

addressed rural workforce, digital

Youth Jazz Orchestra provided

were spoiled for choice with ten

health, women and maternity,

a delightful range of music as

concurrent sessions, this time taking

education and training, community

delegates took the opportunity

into account topics such as cancer

engagement, health promotion and

to network and catch up with

and chronic conditions, aged care

preventative health, mental health,

colleagues at the Welcome Reception

and end of life, determinants of

access and service delivery, healthy

that was held in the exhibition hall.

health and rural health research.

chronic conditions, culturally

There was hardly a dry eye in the

The concurrent program continued

appropriate practices, and primary

house as day two kicked

care. A number of workshops were

off with international

also offered Monday afternoon

award winners, Gina

including one on getting published

Williams and Guy

in the Australian Journal of Rural

Ghouse. The pair

Health and one on innovating to

merged local Aboriginal

attract and retain women in the

culture with classical

rural health workforce.

opera elements and

child mouths and ears, First National after lunch and examined

There was hardly a dry eye in the house as day two kicked off.

captivated the audience

themes of climate and disasters, rural carers, alcohol and other drugs, community collaboration and co-design, and innovative models of care, as well as further presentations on digital

The first day concluded with a

with a performance

special arts and health performance

of emotional depth and cultural

rural healthcare education and rural

featuring the Activate Seedlings,

significance while highlighting the

training initiatives.

who delivered a heartfelt

potential of creative collaborations to

performance of “Tall Trees”,

tell stories that resonate deeply and

celebrating community and

foster greater understanding and

environmental stewardship.

respect for Indigenous cultures.

health, chronic conditions,

19

CAA First

Rural workforce and the future of

National and Western Australian

National Rural Health Conference

work was the subject of Tuesday’s

health initiatives were featured in

(14-17 September 2026) in Adelaide,

afternoon plenary. Grant Dusting,

our Wednesday morning plenary

promising further opportunities to

social researcher and the Director

session. Professor Jenny May gave

foster the exchange of innovative

of Strategy at McCrindle, offered

her inaugural address as the new

ideas that can transform rural

insights into demographic trends

Rural Health Commissioner and

healthcare in Australia.

and expectations of future

was followed by Dr Neale Fong,

generations that will shape rural

Board Chair of WA Country Health

health strategies and Jacqui Verdon

Service. Alliance Chief Executive

and Di McIntosh from Wangaratta

Susi Tegen then presented ‘Building

showcased their innovative

Blocks for a Resilient Rural Health

approach for cultivating future

Future’ before Frank Quinlan

health professionals through a rural

presented the Royal Flying Doctor

school work-experience program.

Service’s Best for the Bush report.

Luke Kalani provided a peaceful

After lunch, outgoing Board Chair

sound healing session to begin the

of the Alliance, Nicole O’Reilly,

final day of the conference, offering

provided a thoughtful reflection

attendees a chance for relaxation

on the three days and encouraged

and introspection. The session

attendees to consider steps they

allowed participants to reflect on

could take post-conference to

the event while fostering a deeper

translate inspiration into real-world

connection with themselves.

actions. Looking ahead, she invited participants to the upcoming 10th Scientific Symposium (8-10 October 2025) in Alice Springs and the 18th

20

Our final keynote speaker, Mick Colliss, whose story of representing Australia at the World Sudoku Championships was not only an entertaining way to finish the conference, but left the delegates contemplating new ways to imagine, inspire and innovate in their own lives.

The 17th National Rural Health Conference ended not just as a meeting of minds but as a celebration of the resilient spirit that defines Australia’s rural health community. It was a powerful reminder that, while the challenges are significant, the dedication to overcoming them is even more robust. www.caa.net.au

Arts and health stream As in previous years, the Arts and Health stream at the 17th National Rural Health Conference successfully integrated artistic performances and interactive activities to enhance the experience for the delegates.

Apart from those performances

Participants met the makers,

mentioned above that took place on

learned about MEP’s initiatives and

the main stage, delegates could also

supported their cause by purchasing

choose to participate in activities

items and keepsakes.

in the Chill Zone such as weaving, an immersive ‘found forest’, spinal movement class or chair massage.

Art Jam WA facilitated dropin art sessions that encouraged

The integration of artistic expression

participants to contribute to a

and cultural heritage emphasised

community mural or play with

the importance of creativity

beads, watercolours and papercrafts.

in promoting health and well-

This interactive experience fostered

being in rural communities. The

mental well-being through creative

arts and health program served

expression, allowing attendees

as a complement to the robust

to explore various materials and

conversations held in the plenary

mediums while promoting a sense

sessions and workshops, offering

of community.

delegates moments of mindfulness

On Tuesday, Deborah Bonar of Scribblybark, led a collaborative dot painting session, allowing participants to contribute to a stunning canvas that will eventually hang in the Alliance’s office in Canberra. The calming and creative experience provided a relaxing escape for delegates while promoting Aboriginal art practices. The session fostered connectivity through conversation, as participants shared stories and engaged with one another while they painted. It was

Microenterprise People (MEP)

inspiring to see individuals who

set up a three-day market stall

were initially hesitant about their

where attendees engaged with the

artistic abilities embrace the activity,

Additionally, delegates from across

organisation’ s mission to enhance

ultimately spending significant time

the nation were treated to local

employment opportunities for

on the artwork, thoroughly enjoying

artists and performers, providing

individuals with disabilities.

this creative outlet.

which facilitated meaningful conversations and connections.

them with a unique slice of Western Australia as a memorable keepsake.

On the ground feedback indicated that participants appreciated the unique blend of performances

Delegates from across the nation were treated to local artists and performers, providing them with a unique slice of Western Australia.

and interactive elements, highlighting the program as a necessary element to complete the conference. The conversations and connections fostered through activities like the art jam, dot painting, and weaving enriched the communal experience, making the event a true celebration of creativity, connection, and collaboration.

21

CAA First

Group Updates The Council of Ambulance Authorities

T

hroughout the last quarter, our Groups resumed activity after a quiet winter and the Congress rush, with their second meetings kicking off in September.

The Fleet & Equipment Forum embarked on its annual study tour in Sydney, visiting the NSW Ambulance fleet and connecting with partners such as AMTEK, Mercedes e-Sprinter, BMW Hydrogen Cars, Stryker, and RAPP Australia.

The Clinical Committee reviewed the National Sepsis Standards, which we hope will contribute significantly to ongoing efforts in this crucial area. The Sustainable Ambulance Networking Group received updates on Hato Hone St John's launch of the first electric ambulance in New Zealand.

The Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum gathered in Sydney, with presentations from Black Dog, the Matilda Centre, and CQU's Appleton Institute on topics like shift worker sleep and new research on wellbeing. Colleagues from ANZPAA and AFAC joined, with plans for further collaboration across police, fire, and ambulance sectors in the new year.

22

The Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Forum continued its inaugural work from May, exploring neurodiversity in the workplace and the impact of gender stereotypes in disaster response. The Emergency Management and Ambulance Education Committees met in person, both exploring key industry advancements and visiting NSWA’s new Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulance and flood response resources.

The Board has met twice since the last update, including at the annual Congress Board meeting which sees our international partners from UK AACE, Paramedics Chiefs of Canada and US NEMS join the board. This year we welcomed representation from Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

www.caa.net.au

Focus First

Excellence The 2024 CAA Awards for

T

he 2024 CAA Awards for Excellence celebrated the remarkable achievements of ambulance services across Australasia, highlighting innovation, leadership, and commitment to patient care.

This year’s awards featured six categories: Clinical Practice, Leadership, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Patient Care, Staff Development, and Technology, with nearly 50 submissions showcasing exceptional contributions from various services, six winners were announced.

Major Sponsor Awards photography by Hannah Latta

23

Focus First

Excellence in Technology

FOCUS Analytical Dashboard Ambulance Victoria

F

OCUS Analytical Dashboards are a game-changing toolset designed to empower data-driven decision-making and propel our organisation to new heights.

This comprehensive suite combines cutting-

The primary goal of our new analytics dashboards is

edge technology with user-friendly interfaces,

to provide actionable insights across various facets of

offering a dynamic and visual approach to

Ambulance Victoria. From monitoring key performance

interpreting complex datasets.

indicators to tracking operational efficiency and understanding clinical cohorts, these dashboards serve as a centralized hub for next day data visualisation.

24

www.caa.net.au

The primary aim of the “FOCUS” dashboards is inspired by our mission to provide modern datadriven analytics. Through this lens, we are motivated to give equal consideration to AV’s dual responsibilities as both: - Timely access to care; and - High quality and safe care.

FOCUS seeks to simplify the interpretation of complex datasets through intuitive visualisations,

As AV embarks on this data-

The dashboards successfully broke

promoting a deeper understanding

driven journey, we anticipate a

down silos within the organisation.

of performance metrics and

transformative impact on our

Divisions gained visibility into

indicators. By customizing views and

organisational efficiency, agility,

each other's metrics, promoting

prioritizing relevant KPIs, managers

and overall success. The suite of

collaboration and a shared

at all levels can personalize their

analytics dashboards represents a

understanding of organisational

dashboards to focus on what matters

commitment to innovation, enabling

objectives. This increased

most to their specific roles.

us to stay ahead of the curve in an

transparency contributed to a

ever-evolving emergency services

more cohesive and collaborative

landscape. Through these tools, we

work environment.

In terms of user experience, the dashboards are designed with simplicity and intuitiveness in mind. The visual representation of data, through charts, graphs, and interactive elements, facilitates

aspire to unlock new possibilities, drive strategic growth, and position our organisation as a leader in leveraging data for success.

The dashboards undergo continuous refinement based on user feedback and evolving organisational requirements. Regular updates

quick comprehension and decision-

The implementation of

introduced new features, improved

making. The customisation options

these dashboards resulted in

functionalities, and addressed any

allow users to tailor their dashboard

transformative changes across

identified issues, ensuring that the

views to focus on the metrics that

various facets of our organisation,

dashboards remained a dynamic and

matter most to them, promoting a

contributing to enhanced decision-

evolving solution.

personalized and efficient workflow.

making, improved operational

Furthermore, AV’s analytics suite fosters a culture of transparency

efficiency, and a culture of data-driven insights.

and accountability. By providing

The dashboards provided a

access to next day data, managers at

centralised platform for accessing

all levels can take ownership of their

key performance indicators,

performance metrics and contribute

enabling quicker and more informed

Excellence in Technology

actively to organisational goals.

decision-making. Users reported a

Proudly sponsored by

This transparency not only

notable improvement in their ability

enhances communication

to respond swiftly to emerging

within the organisation but also

trends and make strategic decisions

empowers employees with the

aligned with organisational goals.

information they need to make informed decisions.

25

Focus First

Excellence in Clinical Practice

Full Implementation of the Clinical Hub Queensland Ambulance Service

W

hile it originally began with three paramedics during the COVID-19 pandemic as an extra triage service, the Queensland Ambulance Service’s (QAS) Clinical Hub is now home to a diverse group of clinicians who provide support and advice to paramedics and patients who have called Triple Zero (000).

The QAS’s Clinical Hub team’s Full Implementation

The Clinical Hub is located within the bustling

of the QAS Clinical Hub was recognised at the 2024

Operations Centre at the Kedron Emergency Services

CAA Awards for Excellence, taking out the Excellence in

Complex in Brisbane. QAS Deputy Medical Director

Clinical Practice category.

Dr Claire Bertenshaw was one of the driving forces behind the hub’s evolution.

26

www.caa.net.au

“After the Clinical Hub’s initial use

“Early advice and intervention can

"These team members have specialist

as a COVID-19 pandemic triage

be critical to all patients’ health

skillsets and knowledge outside the

service, rather than scaling it back,

outcomes and the Clinical Hub

parameters of paramedicine which

we identified further areas of

provides this broader support.”

enable us to provide more holistic

support it could provide to our staff and communities – in effect, we repurposed and grew it,” Dr Bertenshaw said.

Dr Bertenshaw said not all Triple Zero (000) callers needed to be taken to a hospital’s emergency

support for our patients, especially those with complex needs,” Dr Bertenshaw said.

department (ED), so the Clinical

"For example, the Clinical Hub’s

The hub acts as a 24-hour statewide

Hub’s teams will identify alternative

social worker team not only provides

secondary triage service, providing

but equally effective ways of

advice and support to our on road

risk mitigation, early clinical advice,

providing them with the care

paramedics, but they can also work

alternative pathways, and health

they need.

directly with patients who may

navigation for up to 1200 patients each day.

“The Clinical Hub provides an advisory and support service to our paramedics, not only providing

“Early advice and intervention can be critical to all patients’ health outcomes and the Clinical Hub provides this broader support.”

a “brains trust” of clinicians and doctors for them to use as a resource, but also teams of allied health professionals who they can speak with about any concerns for their patient’s wellbeing and safety,” Dr Bertenshaw said.

The Clinical Hub team provides

be experiencing a broad range

a broad scope of services, and

of psychosocial problems, such

comprises doctors, senior

as mental health, homelessness,

paramedics and clinicians, registered

domestic violence, child safety and

nurses, and a range of allied health

ageing, to connect them with the

staff including mental health

community supports they need.

“The hub also acts as a “safety net”,

and social workers, occupational

with Triple Zero (000) callers who

therapists and physiotherapists, who

have been identified as lower acuity,

ensure their patients receive the

or Code 2 (no lights and sirens

most appropriate and timely care.

response), being transferred through to the teams for service.

“Embedding these professionals into our team means our staff and

“The hub’s clinicians will check in

patients benefit from their broader

with these lower acuity callers by

knowledge of community supports

phone and/or video calls to monitor

they bring to the team,”

their condition until our responders

Dr Bertenshaw said.

arrive, or their condition worsens

“By being better connected with our communities and their support providers, our patients will be better linked into the most appropriate care for their needs.

"By doing this, the QAS is championing better overall outcomes, which is a win for our patients, our service and the broader health system,” Dr Bertenshaw said.

in the meantime, they will escalate their response for urgent attention.

Excellence in Clinical Practice Proudly sponsored by

27

Focus First

Excellence in Staff Development

Leadership Capability Development Framework Queensland Ambulance Service

T

he QAS Leadership Capability Development (LCD) framework is an all-inclusive framework that provides current and prospective leaders within QAS a clear pathway for developing the functional, technical, and leadership skills needed for their roles.

Each supervisory level and role identified within the

development programs along with extension modules.

Qld Ambulance certified agreement has a self-directed,

These resources collectively enhance the development

on-the-job learning guide, online development support

journey for every role.

modules, and a series of sequential leadership

28

www.caa.net.au

Additionally, QAS has recognised

Underpinned by the 70/20/10

These development programs not

the opportunity to create a

learning principle, which

only complement the learning

succession planning framework

emphasises that 70% of learning is

guides and online modules but are

aimed at nurturing future leaders,

gained from hands-on experience,

also delivered face-to-face across the

with a specific focus on enhancing

the new framework is designed to

state to promote regional inclusion

the functional and technical

offer clear, on-the-job guidance to all

and practical accessibility, allowing

competencies required for key

current and prospective supervisors

everyone to benefit from the

leadership positions.

regarding the functional, technical,

development framework.

The approach is to provide a leadership capability development framework that applies to all people, providing: • clear line of sight with the QAS strategy for every role; • articulated career development

and leadership requirements of the role. It allows learners to set their own pace and customise their learning pathway.

capability development, ultimately

1. Understand the Business;

3. Understand how to Engage.

select into development activities; • a solid foundation to a succession planning framework; • multi modal, flexible and inclusive delivery; and

2028 and aims to foster positive organisational change in leadership

• better transparency and

• the ability to individually self-

the QAS workforce plan 2023-

key components:

2. Understand the Rules; and

development activities;

from the ground up, aligns with

The framework compromises three

pathways for all staff;

equity for participation in

This innovative approach, built

creating a healthier workforce culture through engagement.

Since the framework’s launch, over 1000 individuals have participated in various development programs,

The first component, ‘Understand the Business’ features a series of self-directed, on-the-job learning

with hundreds more formally engaging with the learning guides and support modules.

guides titled 'Business Essentials'.

Each guide is tailored to the

The strong backing and proactive

specific supervisory roles within

involvement of the Senior

QAS, detailing the functional

Executives of the Queensland

requirements and how to

Ambulance Service have been

develop them.

crucial for the framework’s implementation, visibility, and the

• regional face to face delivery of

The second component, ‘Understand

content – including delivery by

the Rules’ features a series of online

QAS subject matter experts.

development modules that provide targeted content to complement the self-directed learning guides, offering deeper insights into the

success to date. With this ongoing support and enthusiasm, the framework continues to evolve and provide meaningful development opportunities for the future leaders of QAS.

‘how’ of each leadership role.

The third component ‘Understand how to Engage’ includes seven programs and four additional

Excellence in Staff Development

elective modules, contextualised for

Proudly sponsored by

sequential leadership development

QAS and delivered in partnership with Queensland Health.

29

Focus First

Excellence in Patient Care

S TA R AWARD W INNER

The QAS Falls Co-Response Program Queensland Ambulance Service

Q

ueensland Ambulance Service’s (QAS) pilot falls co-response program has proven highly successful over the last year, so planning is now underway to expand it into more of state’s regions.

The QAS’s Falls Co-Response Program and its team

The Falls Co-Response Program pairs a paramedic

were awarded this year’s Council of Ambulance

with an Allied Health Professional, either an

Authorities Excellence in Patient Care and also took

occupational therapist or a physiotherapist, who

out the overall Star Award.

respond to people who have fallen and have either minor or no significant injuries.

The teams operate from 6am-6pm, seven days a week including public holidays.

30

www.caa.net.au

The program’s aim is to ensure

This included 1,934 Code 2 responses

This reduction in unnecessary

patients who have fallen are

(immediate response without lights

hospital transports meant an

responded to sooner and are

or sirens), with the average arrival

estimated saving of 5,000 patient

assessed by a multidisciplinary

time within 43 minutes compared

hours in the Emergency Department

team, while at the same time,

to standard acute unit arrival time

increasing the use of alternate

of 52 minutes.

treatment pathways.

“The true value of this service lies in the collective knowledge and

Ms Murphy said the

skills, where the paramedics assess

QAS Falls Co-Response Program

multidisciplinary teams first assess

these patients for injuries, while the

Manager Kym Murphy said

their patient carefully, checking

occupational therapists and physios

according to the QAS’s state-wide

their vital signs before checking

assess their living environment

statistics for 2023, there were

them over from head to toe focusing

and look at making some minor

117,355 fall-related calls, making up

on their functional capability.

tweaks like moving furniture or

13 per cent of all Triple Zero (000) calls to the service.

“The pilot program was developed in response to our research which

“We found 50 per cent of our patients needed assistance getting up from the ground,”

found uninjured or minorly injured falls patients were experiencing

“We found 50 per cent of our

longer wait times to be checked

patients needed assistance

over and get back on their feet and

getting up from the ground,”

despite being taken to hospital, did

Ms Murphy said.

not end up needing an overnight admission,” Ms Murphy said.

mechanical lifting devices to choose from to do this, including

remained on the floor, the greater

the Raizer II, Camel, Elk, and

the risk they had of succumbing to

HoverJack, to ensure they can

other health emergencies.

lift patients of all sizes out of most situations safely.

had fallen were being transported

“Once up, and vitals checked again,

to hospital simply to ensure they

our teams work in a skill-sharing

were in a safer environment, but

model to assess their patient’s

this wasn’t necessarily where they

social situation, physical and

wanted to be.

cognitive functional ability in

“We identified the potential to

their own environment.

partner with other allied health

“This enables them to identify any

professionals – occupational

functional change in their patient

therapists and physiotherapists

since their fall, along with any

– at the time of their incident try

potential risks they may face.”

to prevent future falls for these patients and to help them maintain their independence and stay out of hospitals for longer.”

or introducing some extra supports around them to keep them safe and maintain their independence.

“Our teams have four different

“We found the longer people

“We also found many people who

trip hazards, using available aids

We are very proud of the success of this program and were honoured to be awarded the Excellence in Patient Care and the Star Award from the CAA." Kym Murphy, Program Manager, QAS Falls Co-Response

Ms Murphy said of the 2,272 patients the co-responders attended during the pilot period, 995 were able to remain at home after being

The Falls Co-Response program

assessed and treated by the Falls

was trialled across Brisbane’s

co-response clinicians.

Excellence in Patient Care Proudly sponsored by

metropolitan region over the last year, with co-responders attending 2,272 incidents.

31

Focus First

Excellence in Leadership

St Develage of opme

nt: Phase 3– t Imple me ongoin nted, g comm itmen t.

Projec

Tactical Commander Training Framework Hato Hone St John

A

otearoa New Zealand is facing an exponentially increasing risk of catastrophic major incidents, particularly of seismic origin.

The changing weather patterns associated with

Additionally, a recent re-structure added an extra

global warming have increased the frequency

tier of leadership to HHStJ with 98 new management

and significance of storms including cyclones

positions. These positions were filled with people with a

with lethal effect. There is an increasing prevalence

range of experience within and outside of HHStJ. These

of terrorism, also, with the number of active armed

combining factors dictated the need for training in the

offender incidents in recent years increasing.

role of management at major incidents at the tactical level to improve our readiness, resilience, and response to the multitude of inevitable future major incidents.

32

www.caa.net.au

A Tactical Commander Training Framework was created by a core group of subject matter experts (SME).

The brief for the group was to develop and implement training to our 189 ambulance operations managers across 12 courses to prepare our Organisation for the inevitable future major incidents.

An online pre-requisite course was created with three modules delivered already, and another in development:

1

Ambulance Tactical Commander: Introduction

2

Ambulance Tactical Commander: Response

- Increasing manager confidence in managing major incidents: - Increasing manager awareness and knowledge regarding internal and external resources

3

Ambulance Tactical Commander: Recovery

available to them: and - Exercising the processes

4

Ambulance Tactical Commander: General Operations

Some of the key takeaways of this project are: • Outcomes-focused major incident

and lessons learnt to consolidate knowledge.

Aim of the Project

• Improving Organisational resilience and readiness:

To ensure Hato Hone St John provides the highest level of

- By establishing a solid

training for all ambulance

coordinated ambulance response

foundation of competent

operations managers;

to major incidents to improve

tactical managers, HHStJ

patient outcomes, we embarked

increases the resilience and

on implementing this tactical

readiness to manage major

commander training framework

incidents of all sizes;

• Pre and post course online learning packages that can be reflected upon and referenced at any time by ambulance operations managers; • Increased manager confidence in managing incidents with improved incident responses as a result already; • Improved interagency engagement and relationships allowing a more cohesive and structured multi-agency response; and • Commitment to the ongoing development of HHStJ managers

with the following key aims: • Improving patient outcomes

- Reiterating the importance of and processes surrounding

through better managed

sound tactical plans for

ambulance response to

sights of emergency sector

major incidents was the

significance; and

primary objective: - Reemphasising the

- Introducing and exercising an active armed offender standard

principles and processes of

operating procedure (SOP).

the Coordinated Incident

• Improved safety for ambulance

Management System (CIMS)

personnel and patients:

and Ambulance National Major Incident and Emergency Plan (AMPLANZ):

- Creation and introduction of dynamic risk assessment (DRA) tools and processes.

in key competencies.

Excellence in Leadership Proudly sponsored by

33

Focus First

Outcomes/Evaluation

Case Study

Incident Management Confidence

After completing the training,

acquired knowledge to escalate the

a Watch Operations Manager

incident and ensure the appropriate

(WOM) responded to a reported

resources were responding as

cardiac arrest in a residential

per their training, resulting in

property. Once located, the WOM

the patient receiving care from

identified potentially lethal hazards

appropriately trained and equipped

as per the dynamic risk assessment

specialists rapidly without exposing

teaching and evacuated the address.

HHStJ personnel to chemical fumes

The WOM made the decision

associated with a self-harm incident.

All candidates completed a pre and post course online survey regarding their confidence in various aspects of managing a major incident. The first 12 courses demonstrated an increase in attendee confidence after completing the course for all attendees.

through recently

Incident Management Improvements Since the Course Introductions Observations and initial debriefs of declared major incidents have proven an increase in the use of the principles, tools, processes and procedures taught and reinforced through the training framework.

The number of major incident scene updates has substantially increased displaying an increase in the confidence and capability to use these invaluable communications tools to improve incident management.

34

www.caa.net.au

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Focus First

SJWA’s metro ambulance team leaders Joel Moore, Naomi Powel ASM, David Cutler, Rebecca Boughton ASM and Julie Comito. (paramedic Rebecca Boughton, centre, in maternity uniform).

Excellence in

Mental Health and Wellbeing Inclusive Flexible Workplace Arrangements (FWA) to Support Work-life Balance in Ambulance St John WA

S

t John WA (SJWA) has taken significant strides to support the wellbeing of its workforce by implementing inclusive Flexible Workplace Arrangements (FWA), which aim to support ambulance team members in achieving a better work-life balance.

36

The FWA program has positioned SJWA as a progressive

commitments while maintaining their clinical

leader in the ambulance sector. The primary focus of

competencies. Losing experienced officers due to the

the program is to support employees, who meet the

inflexible nature of shift patterns impacts morale,

legislative FWA requirements and balance multiple

community response, and reduces the availability www.caa.net.au

of experienced team members.

The FWA program implementation

Maternity uniforms and

The initiative demonstrates

included dedicated resources,

lactation rooms

SJWA’s focus on optimising officer

process reviews, and the

wellbeing through the use of

improvement in ordering maternity

alternate rostering options.

uniforms, provision of lactation

The need to smoothly transition officers returning to the workforce from extended leave (parental or otherwise) or those looking at retirement through FWA, was identified through workforce engagement and feedback.

rooms, and easier access to Keeping in Touch (KIT) days.

Increased Engagement • Introduction of Keeping In Touch days with a variety of options from specific training days run

by Clinical Education to full

The feedback enabled Metropolitan

operational shifts as eithe

Ambulance Operations to create a

a part of a crew, or as an

shorter 8 hour shift pattern, aimed

additional member.

at supporting primary carers as well as providing a dedicated resources page and streamlining of processes for all FWA and extended leave procedures. The focus remained on staff engagement and ease of access to information.

The alternate rostering patterns now available to team members fosters an increase in resources during peak times, retains valued paramedics and improves the wellbeing of team members.

• Six weeks prior to a team

• Improved process of ordering the maternity specific uniform.

• Organisational commitment that all new stations and facilities have a dedicated lactation room with milk storage facilities.

• Proposed station improvements include a commitment to provide a minimum of one station per district with a lactation room.

• Lactation rooms, including external to SJWA, are showcased on a dedicated internal web page.

member’s return, the Leave Department will notify their line manager to touch base with the returning officer to ensure they are supported and rostered appropriately.

• Electronic KIT forms ensure education and rostering requests get dealt with in a timely manner.

Excellence in Mental Health and Wellbeing Proudly sponsored by

• Continue feedback engagement with team members.

37

Focus First

Centralising all supportive

consists of male team members,

The benefits extend beyond

documents and simplifying the

as well as those transitioning to

individual officers to the

processes through a dedicated

retirement. This inclusiveness has

organisation itself, with SJWA

‘one-stop-shop’ internal landing

been widely praised, with feedback

retaining skilled paramedics who

page has reduced the number of

indicating that employees feel heard,

can offer valuable mentorship to

departmental touch points, with line

supported, and valued:

students and provide resources

managers empowered to support team members back to work.

By streamlining processes through line managers, rather than multiple

“It has taken a huge weight off my shoulders which has made me much more productive and positive at work.”

different departments, feedback confirmed it has eased the mental

“It has taken a huge weight off

load and removed those barriers

my shoulders which has made

to returning to work, which has

me much more productive and

boosted staff morale and improved

positive at work.”

engagement across the width and breadth of the organisation.

The program has enhanced worklife balance, reduced fatigue, and enabled ambulance team members to feel part of a supportive, inclusive environment where caring for

during peak times. As the organisation continues to recruit and evolve, this program will expand with it. By fostering a

“Working shorter shifts has meant

healthy workforce, SJWA is not only

I could come back to work for more

benefiting its employees but also

shifts than I would have previously.”

ensuring a high standard of care for the communities they serve.

“Shorter shifts hasn’t affected my milk supply which is a win

For media enquiries, call

for lactating women.”

(08) 9334 1237. This number will divert to the on-call advisor. If you

family members doesn’t become an

Since its launch, SJWA has had a

‘either-or’ decision.

have a complex query, or cannot get

16 per cent increase in the number

through on the media line, email

of flexible working requests, with

media.relations@stjohnwa.com.au.

The organisation's commitment to supporting its workforce has not been limited to female carers —

eight-hour shifts accounting for 29 per cent of part-time rosters.

about 25 per cent of the FWA cohort

38

www.caa.net.au

Opinion First

My Women in Leadership Scholarship Year Fiona Windsor

W

hen I was announced as the 2023 Women in Leadership Scholarship recipient my immediate thought was: Oh no, I have long service leave and a lap around Australia planned for 2024, what am I going to do?

I have always been the type of person who says “yes” to opportunities and then figures it out later. As a result, overcommitment and burnout are often lingering in the wings of my full and busy life, but the temptation to plan another trip or take on another challenge remains.

As does the guilt of wanting all these things while striving to be the best wife and mother I can be. Societal pressures often make women feel like we need to make a choice between our personal lives or our career, but this year has shown me it doesn’t need to be this way. YOLO.

40

www.caa.net.au

41

Opinion First

Having someone say “I support you, I am here for you” felt new and powerful. Unfortunately, this type of support in the workplace is rarely provided, but is something that we all deserve to receive. In order to move towards a truly equal opportunity work environment, women in the Ambulance sector need their leaders to ask: “What do you want to do and how can I help you achieve it?” This question alongside unwavering support will help women to dispel self-limiting beliefs that they don’t qualify for opportunities, or that they need to sacrifice their family and personal lives in order to achieve fulfilling careers. I want to campaign for success and health for both personal and professional lives, and model this as an achievable expectation.

Having someone say “I support you, I am here for you” felt new and powerful.

I have always been the type of person who says “yes” to opportunities and then figures it out later.

In the lead up to my first coaching session with Julie I didn’t know what to expect. I read that she was a psychotherapist so I was worried she might take a deep dive into my childhood to uncover the roots of my perfectionistic tendencies. And whilst I love a challenge, I wondered if she was going to push me so far out of my comfort zone that it caused me stress and anxiety.

Fortunately, neither of these things happened.

Julie had my back from my first session. I told her my situation, my plans, and she was 100% supportive.

The impact of that unwavering support was huge.

I have often felt that I am fighting for everything, arguing my point, advocating for my decisions and goals. It is exhausting.

42

With this in mind, and shortly after receiving a promotion to Senior Team Manager at Ambulance Victoria, I set off on my six-month lap around the country with my husband and two young children.

I felt conflicted by the juxtaposition between the timing of the promotion and decision to take a career break.

I shared the concerns that I had been ruminating over when Julie stared at me point blank and said “Is that actually true? Or just something you think? Even if it is true, does it matter? Does it stop you doing your job?”

Her challenge helped me to re-shape my perceptions and strengthen my resolve.

My career break did not stop me from achieving what I wanted at work. Nor did my pregnancies, maternity leave, breast feeding, part time flexible working arrangements, or the shifts I have missed to be there for my family. I have not allowed a choice to occur between career and personal life, and this is an expectation that I wish to pass on to others. I’m still not sure how this all fits together, or how to share this expectation, but I know Julie will be there supporting me through this next stage to figure it out.

www.caa.net.au

Awards First

2024 Women in Leadership Scholarship finalists T

he CAA congratulates the following recipients who were recognised as the 2024 Women in Leadership Scholarship finalists.

Ella Boyens

Belinda Deebank

Justine Fletcher

Kristy Fraser

Kate Kamateros

Hato Hone St John Paramedic

Queensland Ambulance Service Senior Operations Supervisor

St John WA Station Manager and Paramedic

St John WA Country Manager Clinical Education

Ambulance Victoria Team Manager

Chandni Kantaria

Amber Lee Lockwood

Caitlyn Porteous

Simone Thomas

Shaye Wesley

Queensland Ambulance Service Advanced Care Paramedic

NSW Ambulance Service A/ Senior Manager Diversity & Inclusion

St John WA Event Manager

Queensland Ambulance Service Advanced Care Paramedic II - Flight

St John WA Paramedic

Scan code to watch the official awards announcement.

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Services First

Paramedics’ race against time to save hiker Ambulance Victoria

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www.caa.net.au

A

mbulance Victoria (AV) Wilderness Response Paramedics braved extreme weather conditions near the summit of the state’s third highest peak in July to save a stranded hiker.

The patient was found sheltering in a small snow cave and was immediately treated for hypothermia before being taken down the mountain.

AV Wilderness Response Paramedic Ian Ross also responded to the case and said it was the quick thinking of Alpine Senior Team Manager Jon Hopkins that meant the difference between life and death.

The 36-year-old male was hiking to the summit of Mount Feathertop when conditions worsened, and he became trapped in loose snow.

After staying in a snow trench overnight, the hiker called emergency services for urgent help, prompting an interagency response.

The deteriorating weather, falling snow and low cloud meant the air ambulance helicopter (HEMS) was unable to safely access the patient, resulting in crews heading off on foot.

Working alongside Victoria Police Search and Rescue, SES and Bush Search and Rescue Volunteers, AV Wilderness Response Paramedics hiked 10 kilometres up the mountain while carrying more than 17 kilograms of equipment.

“Local knowledge is extremely important on these cases and using his expertise, Jon decided to go up the mountain earlier while there was more daylight,” he said.

Using specialist equipment, navigation, and advanced risk assessment, crews guided the patient safely down the mountain where he was then transported to hospital.

Tips to stay safe while hiking: • Consider learning first aid and CPR and tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return. This can be done by filling out a trip intention form and leaving it with a friend or family member.

• Be sure to bring enough water and food, and anything else you need to stay safe such as matches, a torch and sunscreen.

AV Wilderness Response Paramedic Tom Cavanagh said the rescue was a race against time.

• Know your limits and don’t embark on challenges beyond your skill set.

“We were aware of the significant snow fall but for us the weather wasn’t so much the concern because we are trained to handle all conditions, it was whether we would be completing the rescue overnight,” he said.

• Be prepared for weather conditions to change and be aware there may be the potential risk of hypothermia and heatstroke.

“At nighttime a rescue like this becomes exponentially more dangerous given the terrain.

• Download the EmergencyPlus app which has a built-in GPS function to help a caller provide call takers with location details.

The What3Words location function works offline so it can be used in remote areas with poor data connections as well.

“It was lucky we are very experienced and had people with local knowledge who knew the area really well.”

• Download the VicEmergency app to be notified of incidents and warnings for your area.

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Services First

New wing of National St John Ambulance Education College opens in Port Moresby National St John Ambulance Service Papua New Guinea

T

he National St John Ambulance Service in Papua New Guinea (NStJA) has officially opened a new wing at its Ambulance Education College in Port Moresby.

This expansion will boost its domestic training capacity, enabling up to 45 ambulance students to be trained at any given time. The college, which specialises in core emergency responder skills, is a vital part of producing a highly skilled and reliable ambulance workforce for PNG’s emergency ambulance service.

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The flagship course at the college is the Ambulance Induction Program, a rigorous eight-week program designed to provide new recruits with foundational life support skills, advanced safe driving techniques, and crucial training in becoming safe and effective ambulance officers. www.caa.net.au

This includes an internationally accredited advanced driver program that covers essential areas like basic vehicle maintenance, 4WD handling, and low-risk emergency response driving.

A distinctive feature of the college is its comprehensive residential program, where recruits stay on campus throughout their training. The program immerses them in structured team-building exercises, chores, and activities that foster crew resource management and personal responsibility. Through a demanding environment of physical and mental challenges, trainees follow strict routines, adhere to rules, and maintain high standards of conduct, cultivating self-discipline and accountability. The focus on teamwork, time management, and daily physical training pushes recruits to develop resilience, self-control, and dedication.

The goal is to produce not only skilled emergency responders, but well-rounded, disciplined professionals equipped for high-pressure situations.

The college is also home to the NStJA Aeromedical Induction Program, which trains specialist doctors, paramedics, and nurses in critical care, a crucial service for Papua New Guinea’s remote and rugged landscape.

A key figure behind the success of the training program is Alexander Dimain, the Head of Ambulance Education at the College. With extensive experience in emergency response and medical training, Dimain has played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and ensuring it observes best practice. His leadership has been instrumental in developing a new generation of ambulance officers who are not only technically proficient but also equipped with the discipline and resilience needed for the challenging environments in which they will serve.

NStJA Australian paramedics attached to the Australian Federal Police PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, have also played a key role in shaping the college’s programs.

One of NStJA’s Australian Paramedic Glen Beasley, who has been pivotal in the establishment of the new building, is currently mentoring a team of five educators.

All educators are fully certified with nationally recognised qualifications in training and assessment, and they are on track to achieve their Certificate IV in Training and Assessment through St John Ambulance Australia, complementing their PNG certifications.

The expansion project was funded by the NStJA, with substantial support from ExxonMobil PNG. Where possible, the construction has incorporated upcycled materials from previous projects, ensuring the building

The new wing boasts a range of modern facilities, including accommodation for 32 staff members, with additional space in an onsite hotel for larger intakes. reflects both innovation and sustainability.

The college also offers a recreation hall, catering services, and laundry facilities. Training rooms include a simulation setup with a mini emergency department resuscitation bay, a wet lab, a computer lab, and office spaces—creating an immersive, hands-on learning environment for students.

This expansion marks a significant milestone for ambulance education in Papua New Guinea. By enhancing the capacity and quality of training, the National St John Ambulance Education College will continue to produce emergency health service workers equipped to meet the growing demands of healthcare and emergency response in the country.

As NStJA continues to evolve and expand, its commitment to developing the next generation of emergency responders remains stronger than ever.

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Services First

Life-saving shock delivered after cardiac arrest at community event St John NT

S

everal Save a Life Awards and commendations have been presented at a special ceremony to recognise the brave actions of a group of bystanders and St John Volunteers who saved a life at this year’s NT City2Surf in Darwin.

With thousands of runners and walkers participating in the race, the group quietly went to the aid of Chris Trotter who was experiencing a cardiac arrest.

“I would not be here today if it had not been for the actions of the people who came to my aid that day,” Chris said.

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Chris, who is a first aid trainer and has dedicated more than three decades to caring for the community, was on duty as a St John volunteer and on his way to provide aid to another at the event when the episode occurred.

“I was so lucky I was with people who knew what to do,” he said. “But I never thought that someone I had trained in First Aid would end up saving my life.”

www.caa.net.au

That person was Maria Haralambis, who was volunteering alongside Chris as part of the Bicycle Emergency Response Team (BERT) when he fell from his bicycle and became unresponsive. She radioed for help and with the assistance of bystander Royston-Luke Jarman placed Chris into the recovery position.

Chris was in cardiac arrest. The immediacy at which CPR was commenced and the defibrillator administered saved his life.

Maureen Burns, an emergency department nurse, who was participating in the NT City2Surf also stopped at the scene to render assistance to the original patient that Chris and Maria had arrived to assist and who was suffering from severe heat stroke and altered level of consciousness.

Within minutes assistance came from St John NT Intensive Care Paramedic Mark Ferguson, who was also on duty at the event. With the assistance of Maria and the others on scene they attached the defib to deliver the life-saving shock and delivered oxygen as required.

At the first aid tent the other St John Volunteers were being inundated with people seeking assistance. Colin Southam who was participating in the race and is also a St John volunteer came to the assistance of the other volunteers, who were becoming overwhelmed with patients. All of these volunteers, including Emma Collins-Hudsdon and Valma Eaton are to be commended for their actions in difficult conditions. Further support came from staff from the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Athletics NT and the US Marine Corps who stepped in to assist at the first aid post.

With the arrival of paramedics, Chris was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital.

St John NT CEO Andrew Tombs commended all those involved in the incident.

“An incident like this is testament to the selfless dedication of health staff and emergencies services along with volunteers who work together to provide first aid support for the community,” he said.

“If not for the quick thinking of his fellow volunteers and other bystanders Chris may not be with us today.”

Chris has since gained full recovery and joins with St John NT in thanking all of those who went to his aid and the needs of others at this event. Chris’ story demonstrates how cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere and the vital need to know how to conduct CPR. With a long family history association with St John, Chris has returned to work as a first aid trainer and in his free time is continuing as Superintendent of Darwin Cadet Division teaching the next generation life-saving skills.

“Growing up with my father as an Ambulance Officer and my mother a St John Cadet Leader, we were taught that learning first aid was a life skill, just like learning to cook,” Chris said. “I encourage everyone to learn first aid, because it could help you save someone’s life.”

Save a Life Awards A Save a Life Award recognises a person who contributes, through the application of first aid skills, to saving the life of another person.

Maria Haralambis St John NT Royston-Luke Jarman St John NT

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Services First

St John Commendations St John Commendations are awarded for high or noteworthy achievement. This year, Bronze Commendations were awarded to: Emma Collins-Hodsdon St John NT Valma Eaton St John NT Colin Southam St John NT

CEO Commendations

Maureen Burns RFDS Clinical Manager

Graham Glassford Athletics NT Volunteer

Braden Kennedy Paramedic

CEO Commendations are awarded for action beyond the call of duty, reflecting the essence of St John and our values of Respect, Integrity, Collaboration, Empathy.

Paul Campbell RFDS Senior Industrial Nurse/Flight Nurse

First Sergeant Julian Munoz US Marine Corps

Amelia Welsh Intensive Care Paramedic

Andrew Franklin RFDS ICP Paramedic

Gunnery Sergeant Steven R. Veliz US Marine Corps

Royal Flying Doctor Service Represented by Sam Donovan, Operations Manager

Mark Ferguson Intensive Care Paramedic Chris Staffieri Paramedic

Breanna Thiele Paramedic Geoff Bates Intensive Care Paramedic Mandy Paradise OStJ Andrew Thomas ASM

Christopher Pook Athletics NT Volunteer

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www.caa.net.au

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Feature First

E Dr Erica Kreismann

Exploring the far reaches of the earth, and figuring out how to bring more kindness and courage into the world.

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www.caa.net.au

I wasn’t looking for another city or highpressure position… there were a few offers on the table from areas of need across Australia – but when I googled “Tasmania” I was sold."

Dr Erica Kreismann, Executive Medical Director, Ambulance Tasmania

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Feature First

D

r Erica Kreismann is a Specialist in Emergency Medicine with a career spanning multiple continents and decades.

She was the first female doctor in Tasmania’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Service and served as the Director of the Emergency Department at Calvary Hospital prior to stepping into her current role as Executive Medical Director at Ambulance Tasmania.

She is a certified executive coach and cares deeply about leadership, developing people, building community and improving communication.

Erica left Brooklyn, NY on a one-year adventure 13 years ago, landed in Tasmania and somehow never left.

She lives in Hobart with her four kids who seem to have inherited her curiosity and sense of adventure.

Both at work, and in private, Erica continues to nurture her passion for fostering community and connection, exploring the far reaches of the earth, and figuring out how to bring more kindness and courage into the world.

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Erica, tell us a bit about your journey and how you found your way to Tasmania from New York City?

When I started looking for ‘something else’ back in 2010, the push came more from a place of overwhelm and frustration than a decision made with purpose and intention. At that time, all I knew was ‘not this’ in relation to my job/ work-life dance. I was attempting to juggle a full-time academic position as the assistant program director in an Emergency Medicine training program with three young children and a Brooklyn mortgage. So, coming from that place of ‘not this’ – in relation to the overwhelm, the busy-ness of work and life – I was hoping for an escape, an adventure. The plan, at that time, was just to go away for a year – rent the house, travel a bit and land somewhere… different. We had never been to Australia – but since the remit was ‘something different’, I wasn’t looking for another city or high-pressure position. In the end there were a few offers on the table from areas of need across Australia – but when I googled “Tasmania” I was sold; and the Brooklyn to Launceston move became the foundation for the next 13 years.

www.caa.net.au

Reflecting on your career, what key moments shaped your belief that true leadership is about developing others?

In an industry which has predominantly male leaders, how do you feel about guiding the next generation of female leaders?

In his book, The Second Mountain; The Quest for a Moral Life, David Brooks writes about how we initially find ourselves on this proverbial First Mountain, striving for accolades and achievement. I think of it as ‘ticking the boxes’ – most often not even taking the time to truly examine whose boxes they are. But the accolades and achievement are empty, and the fulfillment we expect to find at the summit doesn’t come and this is part of the loneliness and frustration of the journey. And then, Brooks writes of the Second Mountain and how it is here we find the true fulfillment that comes from contribution and shedding the ego. I do believe that this is the path that many of us are on, and that once we choose to lean in to the power of living our values – this is the moment we start to change the world.

It has, of late, become more acceptable to identify the lack of representation and gender equity among our leadership in the Ambulance and pre-hospital sector. While it is not unique to our industry, it is worth noting and having honest conversations about. Only when we look at the existing state of play through a lens of curiosity will we be able to turn our minds to solutions and how to improve female leadership throughout our organizations.

Your career is an inspiration to women everywhere, how have your mentors and role models (if any) helped guide the way?

We all need people in our lives who inspire us – work, life, etc… and I have certainly been fortunate to have mentors throughout my career who have offered guidance and direction for me. Both in the way they live and lead, as well as in the support they have offered. One of my most powerful learnings along the way has been the impact of community; colleagues who show up for each other to navigate the inevitable challenges, to support each other, to learn and grow together. There is the concept of a mentoring community – not just one person, but rather a personal board of sorts. A cohort who offer different perspectives and different experience - who come together to provide that mentoring guidance – this has been the most valuable addition to my world. My most impactful mentors have not been people who look or live like me, but rather those who challenge me to grow. Mentors who have encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and go after the things that I want or to increase the scope of my impact personally and professionally.

Our male leaders have been integral in supporting the next generation of leaders – both male and female – AND I do also believe that representation matter. That for our young and up-and-coming female leaders it is important to see women at all levels of leadership – from front line to the executive. It is only when we see people sitting around the table in equal representation and numbers to our workforce that we will have made true progress – and this goes not only for gender disparity, but for all indicators of diversity. I love the thought that, in some small way, my presence at the table or in the boardroom may serve as inspiration for women in the organisation to reach higher and dream bigger.

We all need people in our lives inspire us."

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Feature First

As a senior doctor that may break the traditional picture of what is a ‘senior doctor’, how would you like to change the perception of senior doctors?

This made me laugh – maybe because I’m not entirely sure what the perception of senior doctors is – but I suppose it is true that I may break the traditional picture regardless. If we park the perceptions and bias around senior doctors, and around all our cohort, we are left with a distilled vision of what a true team could look like. One in which we all have the opportunity to show up and add value – each in our own unique way.

Yes, I can add value as a doctor with decades of experience across multiple different health systems and countries, but also as a mum of four, and also as a leader who is passionate about building teams and community – and that is unique to me as a human; just as someone else will come with their own version of valueadd. I would love for us to move away from our inclination towards ‘othering’ and instead look for the value that people bring. This could then extend beyond the boundaries of ‘senior doctor’ or ‘intensive care paramedic’ or ‘nurse’ and we could become a team where we complement each other’s skills and honour our diversity and experience.

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Being a mother and running a household all while holding a prominent role with Ambulance Tasmania, how do you maintain a strong or consistent work-life balance?

I gave up on the notion of a work-life balance years ago. It gave me no end of frustration because I constantly felt like I was falling short in never being able to achieve it. When I was at home, I felt guilty for not being at work, when I was at work I felt guilty for not being at home – I was living in this space of ‘never enough’ and it was exhausting and demoralising.

What I have come to understand is that while balance may be elusive – we do seem to have chapters of our lives. And what success looks like for one of us, in one chapter, will be quite different for another. Creating the space and grace to accept that has been life changing.

Suddenly I was able to define success for myself at that particular point in time – accepting that it would likely look very different somewhere down the track.

When my kids were small, their needs – and my own – were very different to what they are now that my children are older. And what matters to me in terms of priorities will be different than what matters to a colleague. And it doesn’t make one of us right. Or wrong. Just different. SO, it wasn’t so much finding a balance that enabled peace or success, but rather taking the time to define what success looks like and extending the grace to myself in the pursuit of that. As someone brilliant once said – you can have all the things, just not all at the same time…

www.caa.net.au

What matters to me in terms of priorities will be different than what matters to a colleague.

And it doesn’t make one of us right. Or wrong.

Just different.

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Feature First

You were an intern at a New York hospital during 9/11, one of the most influential events of the 21st century so far. How did working through this event shape your future career path and potentially change your medical perspective?

I wish that I had all sorts of wonderful, warm and supportive stories to share about how we navigated the trauma of 9/11 and its aftermath.

But the truth is that 23 years ago, we weren’t doing much in that space. We looked after each other as individuals – my intern class was awesome and perhaps this laid the foundation for our comradery and closeness – but there were no programs or wellness checks that I can recall. It was an intense, heightened time, one that, even in retrospect feels surreal, and we got through by putting one foot in front of the other and continuing to show up.

In some ways I think we were fortunate because it gave us a sense of purpose and an ability to feel like we were contributing, even in some small way, despite the futility we all felt. It was a time that was marked by a funny tension between overwhelm with the horror that the world could serve up – nearly all of us knew someone who had died or been intimately impacted – and at the same time it brought out this real compassion and community that is uncommon in what is usually a fast-paced, anonymous city. It highlighted for me the tension that often exists at these times of crisis; that somehow the best and the worst of humanity are magnified. And that in these moments we have a choice to either lose ourselves in the hopelessness of man or lean in to the possibility and potential that we each hold to make this world just a little bit better.

It was an intense, heightened time, one that, even in retrospect feels surreal, and we got through by putting one foot in front of the other and continuing to show up.

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Events First

2025 IRCP

W

hat to Expect at the 21st Forum of the International Roundtable on Community Paramedicine (IRCP) in 2025.

The International Roundtable on Community Paramedicine (IRCP) is set to make its way to Adelaide, Australia, for the 21st Forum in collaboration with the Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA) Congress, taking place from August 18-22, 2025. This exciting event marks a significant milestone in the IRCP's ongoing mission to advance community paramedicine on a global scale. Participants can look forward to engaging discussions, innovative presentations, and collaborative networking opportunities centered around enhancing healthcare delivery through community paramedicine, with a particular focus on rural and remote services.

A Historic Return to Australia The IRCP began its journey in 2005, when a pivotal meeting in Halifax, Canada, brought together representatives from Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States to discuss the future of community paramedicine. This collaborative effort has rotated annually among these countries, allowing each to showcase their advancements and unique approaches to integrating paramedics into community health systems. Bringing IRCP to Australia as part of this cycle signifies not only a commitment to sharing knowledge and resources but also an opportunity for Australian paramedic services to showcase their innovative models and practices on an international stage.

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The Significance of Hosting in Australia Australia has a rich history of community paramedicine initiatives, marked by innovative programs that address local healthcare needs.

Hosting the IRCP forum in collaboration with the CAA Congress provides an opportunity for Australian leaders and practitioners to share their successes and challenges with an international audience, while also gaining insights from global experts. This exchange of ideas is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring that paramedicine continues to evolve in response to changing healthcare landscapes.

Bringing IRCP to Australia: A Global Perspective The decision to hold the 21st IRCP Forum in Australia reflects a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration among the core countries involved in the IRCP. Each country in the rotation—United Kingdom, Canada, United States, and Australia—brings its unique perspectives and advancements to the table, enriching the dialogue surrounding community paramedicine.

By showcasing Australia’s community paramedicine initiatives, particularly in rural and remote settings, the forum aims to inspire attendees to adopt and adapt successful practices from one another. This exchange not only benefits the individual countries involved but also contributes to the global movement toward better healthcare delivery through innovative communitybased solutions.

www.caa.net.au

Participating in the 21st Forum The 21st Forum of the IRCP in Adelaide, in collaboration with the CAA Congress, promises to be an enriching experience for all involved, with opportunities to learn, share, and collaborate on community paramedicine initiatives, particularly in rural and remote contexts.

As Australia takes center stage, it is poised to showcase its commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes through community paramedicine. Participants can expect to leave the forum not only with new insights and knowledge but also with a renewed sense of purpose in their roles as community health advocates.

• Mental Health Support Programs: Sharing strategies for addressing mental health needs through community paramedic interventions.

• Research Presentations: Attendees will have the opportunity to hear about the latest research findings in community paramedicine, including case studies from Australia and beyond that demonstrate the impact of community paramedic programs on healthcare delivery in rural and remote areas.

• Networking Opportunities: Dedicated sessions for networking will enable attendees to connect, share experiences, and foster collaborations that extend beyond the forum.

• Rural and Remote Healthcare Challenges: Exploring the unique challenges faced by community paramedics in healthcare deserts, including metropolitan, urban, rural, and frontier populated areas.

Join us in Adelaide from August 18-22, 2025, as we continue to innovate and enhance community paramedicine for the benefit of all communities, focusing on bridging healthcare gaps in rural and remote areas!

• Integration of Technology: Discussing how digital health tools can enhance community paramedicine, especially in remote locations.

For any questions or further information, please contact Scott Willits at SWillits@ParamedicFoundation.org or visit IRCP.info.

• Indigenous Health Initiatives: Highlighting successful collaborations with Indigenous communities and the importance of culturally appropriate care in rural settings.

Tickets for 2025 CAA Congress and IRCP will be on sale early December 2024.

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Events First

Restart a Heart Day

9 IN 10 PEOPLE WON’T SURVIVE

AN OUT-OF-HOSPITAL

CARDIAC

ARREST

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Queensland Ambulance Service

Wellington Free Ambulance

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) rallied around the Call Push Shock message on Restart a Heart Day by heading out into the community, with staff and volunteers engaging with stalls in settings from a large metropolitan hospital in the Queensland Children’s Hospital through to country towns such as Kingaroy, where a first aid display was kept busy in the local IGA supermarket.

Wellington Free Ambulance focus on training our community in CPR & how to use an AED year round through The Lloyd Morrison Foundation Heartbeat Programme.

This is a free community training programme delivered to businesses, schools and community groups throughout Greater Wellington and Wairarapa. This essential and ongoing training is made possible by the support and generosity of Julie Nevett and The Lloyd Morrison Foundation. Last year 7648 people were taught CPR and 105 community AED’s (accessible 24/7) were installed across the community.

Queensland’s ‘poster patient’ and main media story for Restart a Heart Day was Graham Cranney, a Sunshine Coast hinterland farmer who collapsed into cardiac arrest while waiting for a coffee order at a local café several months ago.

On Restart a Heart Day, Graham was reunited with the bystanders who immediately performed effective CPR and the paramedics who successfully resuscitated Graham upon their arrival.

The heartwarming reunion was covered by 7 News, WIN News, ABC News and shared on the QAS Facebook page.

Image thanks to Imray Snaps

www.caa.net.au

NSW Ambulance

ACT Ambulance Service

NSW Ambulance provided CPR familiarisations at Parramatta Farmers Market to highlight the importance of early intervention and bystander CPR. Locals were encouraged to sign up to the GoodSAM app, which connects volunteers with nearby patients in cardiac arrest to provide CPR until paramedics arrive.

On Restart a Heart Day on Wednesday 16 October, ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) hosted a pop-up in the heart of Canberra in Garema place in Civic.

As part of the campaign, NSW Ambulance shared the story of cardiac arrest survivor John Cornell, showcasing how quick CPR and AED intervention saved his life after he collapsed while out walking with his son in the Blue Mountains.

If you’re 18 or older, willing and able to perform chest compressions, consider becoming a GoodSAM volunteer.

The pop up aimed to teach members of the community how to complete CPR and use an AED. ACTAS staff conducted live CPR and AED demonstrations for the public, while also answering any questions about the importance of delivering early and effective CPR to anyone suffering from a cardiac arrest.

Our mascot Kirby the Kangaroo also got in on the action, and Restart a Heart Day merchandise was handed out, to keep discussions about this important topic going in Canberra homes.

Ambulance Victoria

Read More

As part of Restart a Heart Day, Ambulance Victoria (AV) celebrated the 12 new Heart Safe Communities across the state and 12 additional towns that have joined the program for 2024-25.

This is part of AV’s month-long Shocktober campaign, which aims to raise cardiac arrest awareness and teach Victorians the importance of learning Call, Push, Shock – Calling Triple Zero (000), performing CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Both Shocktober and the Heart Safe Communities initiative also promote GoodSAM, encouraging more Victorians to sign up to the life-saving app.

EVERY YEAR AROUND 30,000 AUSTRALIANS & NEW ZEALANDERS SUFFER AN OUT-OF-HOSPITAL

CARDIAC ARREST 63

Events First

AFTER 10 MINUTES WITHOUT INTERVENTION THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY CARDIAC ARREST IS

NEARLY IRREVERSIBLE

SA Ambulance Service

Ambulance Tasmania

"Would you like to learn how to save a life?” That's the question we were asking in Rundle Mall, as part of Restart a Heart Day, together with our colleagues from St John Ambulance SA, Surf Life Saving SA, Heart Foundation, paramedicine students from Flinders University, AED-manufacturer ZOLL, and the The Council of Ambulance Authorities. The message focused on CALL – PUSH – SHOCK, demonstrating how easy it can be for bystanders to provide lifeprolonging care until paramedics arrive. People from all walks of life took up our offer, learning from clinicians correct CPR technique, and how AEDs can deliver defibrillation shocks to restart a heart! Thank you to everyone who stopped by and learned CPR.

For Restart a Heart Day 2024, Ambulance Tasmania put on multiple events across Tasmania to engage as many different communities as possible to share the critical life-saving message – CALL, PUSH, SHOCK. In Hobart, the University of Tasmania hosted the service to teach passing students and staff about CPR and using AEDs, while similar demonstration events happened at the Launceston General Hospital in the north, the Tulip Festival in Wynyard in the north west, and in Dover in the far south of Tasmania.

Ambulance Tasmania’s Director of Clinical Services, Jennifer Bolster, became the key spokesperson for the Tasmanian campaign.

“Bystander intervention is critical and has absolutely contributed to lives being saved in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest scenarios,” she told media.

National St John Ambulance Papua New Guinea As part of the global Restart a Heart Day campaign, the National St John Ambulance Service gave free, one-hour CPR and AED awareness sessions to workplaces. Since September 27, 11 workplaces took the opportunity to learn the basics of CPR. National St John Ambulance Service continued to offer free CPR training until the end of October, giving more workplaces the chance to participate.

Participating organisations included the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy, NWTL Group, World Bank Group, Pacific Star Limited (The National), National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA), Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea, BSP Capital, and ANZ PNG

Pictured: Jennifer Bolster – Director, Clinical Services and Paul Shelverton – Volunteer Ambulance Officer (both from Ambulance Tasmania). Image credit: Marina Hacquin

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80% OF OUT-OF-HOSPITAL

CARDIAC ARRESTS HAPPEN IN OUR HOMES

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St John NT

St John WA

St John NT hosted a vibrant community event at the Darwin Waterfront for World Restart a Heart Day. Local radio hosts Leisha and Dan from Mix104.9 participated, learning CPR tips and exploring an ambulance while broadcasting live.

The event also featured a friendly competition between NT Fire and Emergency Services, the Australian Federal Police, and St John CPR specialists (trainers, volunteers and cadets!), with the firefighters claiming victory. An AED Treasure Hunt engaged attendees, distributing 300 heart-shaped stress balls.

For Restart a Heart Day, St John WA promoted Automated External Defibrillator (AED) awareness and accessibility and the value of First Aid education. Regional teams distributed fundraising kits to support local AED fundraising, and across the State St John WA advocated with local governments to strengthen their response capabilities to out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). Throughout October, the "Shocktober" campaign offered 20 per cent off AEDs, and reunion stories of OHCA survivors made headlines as they met the teams and bystanders who performed lifesaving CPR. This all highlighted the importance of first aid education and the WA defibrillator network, which reached a staggering 9000 locations during the month.

The successful campaign reached over 60,000 people, highlighting the crucial importance of first aid skills in cardiac emergencies. Thanks to Stryker and Darwin Waterfront Corporation for supporting.

Pictured: Representatives from NT Fire and Australian Federal Police mid-CPR competition

Pictured: Pilbara OHCA survivor Gavin Mippy created an artwork paying tribute to the St John WA, Rio Tinto and hospital teams who helped save him. Pictured with first responders and wife Cody who performed CPR.

EVERY MINUTE A PATIENT IS IN CARDIAC ARREST,

NOT RECEIVING CPR OR AED SHOCK, CHANCES OF SURVIVAL DROP BY 10%

Hato Hone St John Hato Hone St John's (HHStJ) Shocktober campaign was on a mission throughout October to empower as many people as possible with lifesaving skills as part of its Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) awareness month. Final figures are yet to be confirmed however well over 20,000 people were trained through the 3-Steps-For-Life programme run by HHStJ Educators at over 260 sessions in towns and cities across the motu. HHStJ also delivered a specially designed programme to schools for the first time this year with it's Save Your Teddy campaign and on October 16. Over 62 schools took part in educating their children about how they can help if someone suffers a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest is still one of Aotearoa’s biggest killers.

Survival chances dramatically improve the sooner CPR begins, and HHStJ want everyone to have the confidence to perform the three steps that can double a person’s chance of surviving.

Scan QR code to learn more about Restart a Heart

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Partners First

Landmark Australasian Paramedicine Workforce Survey highlights both challenges and opportunities for the profession John Bruning, CEO, Australasian College of Paramedicine

I

n July, the College released the first report of a landmark three-year study identifying and exploring trends that affect the Australasian paramedicine workforce.

The inaugural Australasian Paramedicine Workforce Survey report 2023-24 explores the demographic, career trajectory, work motivations and conditions for those working in clinical, management and educational capacities within the paramedicine workforce of Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, including information on work satisfaction and wellbeing, reasons for attrition rates, and choices about place of work.

The survey findings reveal new insights into the current and future state of the paramedicine workforce across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand and provide governments and decision-makers with crucial knowledge and evidence to better inform workforce planning.

Importantly for the future evolution of the profession, the survey also highlights key challenges in the areas of leadership, sustainability, representation and equity, prompting the pressing need for the development of initiatives to address the current issues facing women, care-givers, First Nations, Ma-ori and Pasifika, and culturally and linguistically diverse peoples.

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Among the findings were that students and those paramedics under the age of 40 are predominately female, leaving those over 40, and particularly those in management positions, predominantly male. More than two in every five paramedics have carer responsibilities for children under the age of 16, and one in every five have caring responsibilities for an adult family member. And nine percent of paramedics in Aotearoa New Zealand identify as Ma-ori, and 3% as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in Australia. While Ma-ori workforce participation is higher in Aotearoa New Zealand, it lags behind overall population data.

In recognising and understanding the challenges, we can take positive steps forward as the survey results present us with an opportunity to chart a more inclusive and accommodating path ahead for the profession; one that is genuinely representative of the communities we serve, one that ensures women are encouraged to stay on the job and are better able to move into leadership positions, and one that better allows for flexibility for care-givers juggling familial care with professional responsibilities.

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These include: • Initiatives that seek to increase workforce participation for females over the age of 40, coupled with increasing the proportion of females in management roles. For example, identifying and removing barriers to ongoing workforce participation for females aged over 40.

• Student/cadet recruitment campaigns that specifically target Ma-ori and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to enhance workforce representation that reflects the broader community.

• Resourcing and staffing levels remain a significant concern for paramedics in both countries. Ongoing research and research-informed advocacy to enhance the provision and availability of financial support for staffing and resources to paramedicine organisations across Australasia is a key priority for the future.

Prior to the survey, there had been a lack of a consistent and complete paramedicine workforce dataset that had had far-reaching implications for how governments and decision-makers planned and delivered healthcare services, and ultimately, improved person-centred care.

Knowledge is power, and the comprehensive nature of the survey – which examines the profession beyond traditional ambulance service reporting - for the first time gives us the most in-depth insights into contemporary paramedic practice to date in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, and affords us the ability to adapt to the rapidly evolving nature of paramedicine.

The second survey in this three-year study will be launched soon. We urge paramedics working across all practice settings to take part in order to better respond to your needs and to help shape the future of paramedicine.

• Sustainable student placement support.

• Addressing the needs of care-givers in an ageing society where demand continues to grow.

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Partners First

European EMS Congress to be held in Sweden.

T

he European EMS Congress is back and will take place in Stockholm, Sweden in 2025. The theme for next year’s congress is ‘It Takes a System to Save a Life: Safety for our Patients, our People and our Communities’

EMS Europe are pleased to invite you to their internationally renowned congress which features interactive workshops, engaging panel discussions, high scientific standards and the well-known EMS Championship Competition. The 2025 congress will also see the return of the ‘Rapid Fire’ sessions and labs, along with the popular and inspiring TED-style talks.

In addition to the main theme, the congress has a renewed focus on sustainability, equality and diversity.

This international congress is organised by EMS Europe in collaboration with Region Stockholm, AISAB, Flisa and the Swedish Resuscitation Council.

The congress is truly international with participants from more than 50 countries globally and panels comprised of international experts in emergency and pre-hospital care.

The 2025 congress will take place from 2-4 June 2025 in beautiful Stockholm in Sweden, at the Waterfront Congress Centre which is conveniently located close to transport and the beautiful, historical neighbourhood of “Gamla Stan”.

The social programme promises to showcase the best of Swedish culture, including a Gala Dinner, which will be held in Stockholm’s City Hall (the venue of the Nobel Prize Giving Ceremony) as well as numerous other opportunities to connect with colleagues.

Abstract submissions are now open. Early-bird registration, call for EMS-Talks and entry for the championship will open soon.

For more details please visit www.emscongress2025.org and follow @european_ems on socials for all the latest news about the congress.

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It's Conference Season The Council of Ambulance Authorities

C

onference season is truly underway and the CAA team have been staying up to date across a range of subjects around Australasia.

AFAC 24

Aeromed24

In August, the AFAC24 Conference hosted by AFAC, Deutsche Messe, the Institution of Fire Engineers (Australia) and the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience (AIDR) attracted an audience of over 4,000 emergency management personnel.

Both David Waters – Chief Executive and Josh McNally, Director – Partnerships & Advocacy were fortunate enough attend, representing the CAA.

The Aeromedical Society of Australasia (ASA) held their annual scientific conference - Aeromed24 in beautiful Christchurch this week. This meeting brings together Australasia’s aeromedical teams to hear a broad range of presentations topical in the emergency rescue helicopter, patient retrieval and transport, and search and rescue settings.

During their time there they were able to experience the latest in emergency and firefighting equipment, systems planning and response software, and PPE technology as well as meet with a range of CAA partners including RAPP, ZOLL, Deccan, Workwear Group and Blue Light Card.

The amazing key-note speakers included Korrin Barrett on how she rebuilt her life following the loss of three limbs to septicaemia, Carlton Irving on resuscitating the NZ Health Care system, Dr Hanna Latta on Framing Reality – an exploration of perception, and Gilbert Enoka – the mental health coach for the All Blacks on Performance and Pressure. These key-notes were supported by many other amazing speakers over the three days.

Overall, an excellent conference that was very well attended and supported by many of the exhibitors that support the CAA Congress. That great news is that ASA Aeromed 2025 will be held in spectacular Hobart next September!

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Research First

Improving Efficiency in Australia’s Emergency Response Times: Examining the Importance of Innovative Software Andrew Wiltshire, Regional Director APAC, Totalmobile

I

n Australia’s vast landscape, where emergencies such as bushfires, floods, and medical crises frequently occur, the efficiency of emergency response operations is vital.

Every second counts in these critical situations, making efficient rostering and scheduling of emergency service personnel a crucial aspect of ensuring timely and effective responses.

Traditional methods of rostering, relying on exhaustive paper-based systems that are susceptible to error or outdated software, often fall short in meeting the dynamic and complex needs of modern-day emergency response teams. This has seen a significant move towards utilising intelligent software to optimise workforce deployment and enhance critical response times. These solutions take advantage of advanced technology, such as AI or IoT, to quickly automate scheduling, optimise resource allocation, and provide up-to-date information on staffing levels and availability.

From managing the intricacies of shift patterns and ensuring compliance with stringent regulations, to mitigating the impact of staffing shortages to ensure optimal coverage and flexibility in last-minute changes; modern rostering software offers a solution that can be tailored to the specific needs of the sector or organisation.

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Better technology combined with innovative shift patterns can even bolster recruitment and retention efforts by providing a better work-life balance for workers. Intelligent software can provide organisations with features that allow workers to access their long-term shifts, plan for annual leave, swap shifts with ease, and apply for overtime effortlessly, resulting in enhanced job satisfaction and reducing the risk of burnout.

Given the diverse terrain of Australasia, the importance of efficient rostering software becomes even more pronounced. Remote and rural communities, often vulnerable to natural disasters and emergencies, rely heavily on the prompt and coordinated response of our emergency services. By enabling organisations to efficiently roster and deploy personnel, regardless of their location, advanced scheduling solutions can play a critical role in bridging the gap between urban centres and remote regions, ensuring equitable access to emergency assistance.

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Research First

Andrew Wiltshire Regional Director APAC, Totalmobile

With the increasing frequency and intensity of climaterelated disasters, there is a greater need for flexible and adaptable emergency response capabilities. Intelligent rostering software equipped with predictive analytics and forecasting capabilities can empower organisations as they anticipate and proactively address staffing needs based on historical data, weather patterns, and other key factors.

This pre-emptive approach not only enhances preparedness but also enables emergency services to respond swiftly and decisively to emerging situations, minimising the impact on communities and, most critically, saving lives.

While the benefits of efficient rostering software are undeniable, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and considerations associated with its implementation. Key factors, such as robust data security, ease of integration with existing systems, and user adoption, must be carefully considered to ensure a successful integration and maximise the potential benefits of an intelligent job management platform.

The effectiveness of rostering software also hinges on its alignment with broader organisational strategies and objectives too. It’s not just a technological solution, which many people so often perceive, but a strategic enabler that must be easily integrated into the overarching framework of emergency service operations to truly unlock its potential.

It’s clear that the adoption of efficient rostering scheduling software represents a significant step forward in enhancing emergency response capabilities in Australia. By utilising the power of advanced technology to optimise workforce management, streamline operations, and improve response times, emergency services can better fulfil their mission of safeguarding lives and protecting communities.

As the landscape of emergency management continues to grow and needs develop, embracing clever solutions will be essential in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of Australia’s emergency services sector.

Andrew brings rich experience from APAC roles across the Enterprise Technology sector.

His versatile career encompasses key roles within some of the industry’s leading organisations and substantial experience in launching and growing scale-up businesses across Asia Pacific.

Andrew’s experience includes successful collaborations in key industries, including Telecommunications, Banking & Finance, Utilities, Public Sector, Healthcare and more.

As a hands-on, customer-centric sales and marketing leader, Andrew brings transformative technologies to market that deliver real business benefits for his customers and partners.

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Research First

The future of medical dispatch as seen by AI Created by ChatGPT. Prompting: Picture of AI assisting a medical dispatcher in handling emergency calls

Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Artificial Intelligence Is Artificial Intelligence the Key to Improving Outcomes?

Jake Toy, DO, MS and Freddy Lippert, MD

I

ts 2:59 am and an emergency call is transferred to medical dispatch – a woman reports her husband is having a seizure. She frantically exclaims that he is shaking but still breathing. The dispatcher attempts to calm her, obtain location information, and clarify his symptoms.

Forty-four seconds into the call, an orange alert bubble appears in the corner of the dispatcher’s screen. An unseen ally has been listening to the call audio and analyzing it in real-time. An artificial intelligence (AI) prediction that the man may be in cardiac arrest was sent to the dispatcher after breathing pattern changes were detected. The dispatcher instructs the woman to immediately initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and dispatches the appropriate ALS resources.

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Within minutes of first responder arrival, audio from the conversation with the wife is captured and data from this are used by AI decision-support to make a prediction in real-time that the man has a 43% chance of survival. Another AI tool filters out ongoing CPR artifact and determines the underlying cardiac rhythm is ventricular fibrillation. It predicts with high certainty that the next shock will be successful in restoring organized cardiac function which prompts the first responders to preemptively prepare their monitor for defibrillation. A shock is delivered. The pause is less than three seconds. The first responders achieve ROSC and successfully stabilize the patient for transfer to the hospital.

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AI has shown significant potential to support highly trained first responders amidst a dynamic prehospital cardiac arrest resuscitation.

Present research has demonstrated the ability of AI to make accurate predictions that could support dispatchers and first responders, and further guide emergency department decisions. While significant barriers still exist that hinder widespread implementation of AI in the prehospital setting, AI-guided resuscitation may not be as far off as you think. This article explores the current potential uses of AI to support prehospital cardiac arrest care and the challenges on the path toward widespread use of this emerging technology.

Cardiac Arrest Survival has Flat Lined Despite significant innovations in resuscitation science, the rate of survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Australia and worldwide has remain nearly unchanged.

According to an Ambulance Victoria Cardiac Arrest Registry Annual Report in 2023, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival has persistently hovered around 10% for the past 10 years.1 Survival rates have been similar in the United States and Europe as reported by the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) and the European EuReCa studies, respectively.2,3 As we persist in searching for strategies to improve cardiac arrest survival, AI-guided cardiac arrest resuscitation may be the critical breakthrough that we need.4,5

Recent Evidence for AI-Guided Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation In response to the growing interest in AI to support cardiac arrest resuscitation, Resuscitation Plus recently published a review article which maps the current extent of available studies on this topic entitled “Artificial Intelligence to Support Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Care: A Scoping Review”.5 The authors performed a broad search of multiple biomedical databases and found a 400% increase in published studies between 2016 and 2022.

The authors of the review further identified three concentrations of topics including: 1) ECG waveform classification and outcome prediction; 2) early dispatch-level detection and outcome prediction; and 3) return of spontaneous circulation and survival prediction.

Published Studies on Artificial Intelligence to Support Cardiac Arrest Care

Percentage of the Total Studies Representing Each Topic

Counts of published studies by year. Figure was adapted from Figure 3A in Toy J, Bosson N, Schlesinger S, et al. Artificial intelligence to support out-of-hospital cardiac arrest care: A scoping review. Resuscitation Plus.

2023;16:100491. doi:10.1016/j.resplu.2023.100491

Representation of each topic for the studies identified that focused on artificial intelligence to support cardiac arrest care. Figure was adapted from Figure 3C in Toy J, Bosson N, Schlesinger S, et al.

Artificial intelligence to support out-of-hospital cardiac arrest care: A scoping review. Resuscitation Plus. 2023;16:100491. doi:10.1016/j. resplu.2023.100491

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Research First

Dispatcher assisted by AI in Copenhagen From Mutimedia.europarl.Europe Scan code for full movie:

ECG Waveform Classification

Early Dispatch-level Detection

Research teams used datasets with hundreds of previously collected ECGs to train an AI model to assist first responders in rhythm analysis during cardiac arrest. The AI models were shown five to ten second segments of ECG waveform data which was labeled with a “ground truth” (i.e. this waveform represents ventricular fibrillation). After viewing hundreds of labeled ECGs in this manner, the AI models begin to recognize patterns in the labeled waveform data enabling it to accurately make a prediction when analyzing a new ECG waveform data.

In a similar way that AI models were trained to analyze ECG waveform data, research teams labeled dispatch audio files with the “ground truth” (i.e. this audio transmission represents a patient in cardiac arrest) to train AI models to recognize cardiac arrest. AI models used data gained not only from spoken words and phrases, but also vocal acoustic characteristics (i.e. rapidity of speech and pitch) and background sounds (i.e. agonal breathing) to predict if a patient was in cardiac arrest. One retrospective study conducted by a research team in Copenhagen, Denmark found that an AI model could accurately predict if a patient was in cardiac arrest faster than a medical dispatcher.6

Prior studies have described several AI models which can analyze ECG waveform data and predict if a rhythm is ventricular fibrillation, if defibrillation would be advised, or if defibrillation would be successful. Other models have been able to correctly discriminate between organized cardiac electrical activity that is pulsegenerating versus pulseless electrical activity. These AI models are also able to effectively conduct rhythm analysis in the presence of ongoing CPR artifact.

To date, these predictive AI models for ECG waveform data have not been studied in real-time during patient care. Nonetheless, these decision support tools have the potential to enable a more targeted approach to shock delivery, reduce pauses during compressions, and assist with more accurate pulse detection during dynamic prehospital cardiac arrest resuscitations.

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One important study to be aware of is the first randomized controlled trial to evaluate the use of an AI model in real-time during prehospital patient care. The findings of this study were published by the American Medical Association in JAMA Network Open and entitled “Effect of Machine Learning on Dispatcher Recognition of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest During Calls to Emergency Medical Services: A Randomized Clinical Trial”.7 The Copenhagen-based research team compared the ability to recognize cardiac arrest between dispatchers supported by AI alerts compared to those not supported by AI alerts.

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The study showed that AI was faster and recognized more cardiac arrest that the medical dispatchers being paramedics and nurses. However, being alerted to a suspected cardiac arrest did not significantly affect the behavior of dispatchers who were listening to a cardiac arrest call. The research team suggested that the human factor in the interaction with decision support is crucial and, while these decision support tools may be accurate, human compliance with alerts is a critical component that must be further explored.

Implementation of AI as decision support at the dispatch-level is an area where rapid scientific progress is taking place. According to the Department of Data Science and AI at Monash University in Melbourne, researchers there are currently undertaking a similar randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impact of AI as decision support at the dispatch-level to identify cardiac arrest for triple zero calls.8

Return of Spontaneous Circulation and Survival Prediction Research teams have developed AI models that can evaluate factors available at the time when first responders arrive or during the course of prehospital care and predict outcomes for patients in cardiac arrest.

These prehospital factors could include age, if the cardiac arrest was witnessed or not, or the time from collapse to when CPR was first started. Prior studies have described several AI models that were able to predict if a patient would achieved ROSC, if re-arrest would occur after ROSC, or if the patient would survive.

Navigating the Barriers to Real-time AI Implementation While AI has demonstrated significant promise to support first responder decision-making and improve care outcomes, there has not been significant progress toward widespread implementation due to several current challenges. These include ethical considerations (i.e. bias decision-making by models not trained on representative populations), issues with data infrastructure (i.e. lack of connection between prehospital and hospital data), legal implications (i.e. who is responsible for a poor outcome), workforce barriers (i.e. distrust in AI and need for extensive training), and safety concerns (i.e. clinicians blindly following AI recommendations). It is critical to deal with these challenges prior to implementing any AI-based system to ensure effective, equitable, and safe use as decisionsupport for first responders.

Balancing the ethical considerations of implementing AI in EMS for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is crucial.

On one hand, stringent barriers and regulations are necessary to ensure patient safety, data privacy, and the reliability of AI systems. These safeguards prevent potential misuse and errors that could harm patients.

On the other hand, overly restrictive barriers can delay the adoption of innovative technologies that have the potential to significantly improve survival rates.

Striking the right balance involves rigorous but efficient evaluation processes, ensuring that AI solutions are both safe and effective, while also being accessible and rapidly deployable to save lives.

At present, these predictive AI models for ROSC and survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest have not been studied in real-time during patient care. However, during a dynamic out-of-hospital resuscitation where limited information must be evaluated rapidly, and uncontrolled environmental factors are present, AIguided resuscitation has the potential to positively support first responder teams. When AI is combined with the clinical gestalt of experienced first responders, this may be the key to increasing survival outcomes in cardiac arrest.

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Research First

Future Path

References:

The future of AI in OHCA holds significant promise for improving patient outcomes. AI technologies can enhance early detection and response times through advanced predictive analytics and real-time monitoring.

Additionally, AI-driven dispatch systems can optimize the allocation of emergency medical resources, ensuring that the nearest and most appropriate responders are deployed quickly. AI algorithms might also provide realtime guidance to bystanders performing CPR, increasing the chances of survival until professional help arrives.

1. Ambulance Victoria VACAR Annual Report 2023.pdf. Accessed August 6, 2024. https://www.ambulance.vic. gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ Ambulance%20Victoria%20 VACAR%20Annual%20Report%20 2023.pdf

As AI continues to evolve, its integration into EMS could revolutionize the management of OHCA, ultimately saving more lives. However, it is our responsibility as humans to effectively implement these new technologies into clinical practices, ensuring trust in human-AI interactions and maintaining rigorous followup to guarantee safety and efficacy.

To date, most of the published studies on AI models to support prehospital cardiac arrest care represent more of a “proof of concept” rather than a demonstration of effectiveness during real-time patient care. Before we can reasonably implement any AI system for decision-support in the prehospital setting, we must both establish a broader evidence-base and overcome implementation barriers. Achieving this requires cross-border collaboration and extensive research.

Nonetheless, with the rapid rise of AI over the past few years, it is only a matter of time until we see widespread implementation of tools for AI-guided resuscitation in our EMS agencies.

Jake Toy, DO, MS Medical Director of Data and Quality Improvement Los Angeles County EMS Agency, California, USA

Freddy Lippert, MD International Chief Medical Officer at Falck, Associate Professor, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

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2. Gräsner JT, Herlitz J, Tjelmeland IBM, et al. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines 2021: Epidemiology of cardiac arrest in Europe. Resuscitation.

2021;161:61-79. doi:10.1016/j. resuscitation.2021.02.007 3. CARES 2023 Annual Report.pdf.

4. Semeraro F, Montomoli J, Cascella M, Bellini V, Bignami EG. Trends and insights about cardiac arrest and artificial intelligence on PubMed using ChatGPT-4.

Resuscitation. 2024;196:110131. doi:10.1016/j.resuscitation.2024.110131 5. Toy J, Bosson N, Schlesinger S, Gausche-Hill M, Stratton S. Artificial intelligence to support out-of-hospital cardiac arrest care: A scoping review.

Resuscitation Plus. 2023;16:100491. doi:10.1016/j.resplu.2023.100491 6. Blomberg SN, Folke F, Ersbøll AK, et al. Machine learning as a supportive tool to recognize cardiac arrest in emergency calls. Resuscitation. 2019;138:322-329. doi:10.1016/j.resuscitation.2019.01.015 7. Blomberg SN, Christensen HC, Lippert F, et al. Effect of Machine Learning on Dispatcher Recognition of Out-ofHospital Cardiac Arrest During Calls to Emergency Medical Services: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(1):e2032320. doi:10.1001/ jamanetworkopen.2020.32320 8. Randomised controlled trial of the Artificial Intelligence in carDiac arrEst (AIDE) decision support tool for improved identification of cardiac arrest in the TripleZero (000) call. Monash University. Accessed August 12, 2024. https://research.monash.edu/en/ projects/randomised-controlled-trialof-the-artificial-intelligence-in-car

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Titan Prehospital Innovation

Smart ambulance technologies

+ Real-time virtual communication using video-conferencing + Rapid entry case notes + Integration with patient records + AI enabled Clinical Decision Support + Medical Device integration

www.titanprehospital.com

Research First

STORC – State Obstetric Referral Call Mel Gardiner

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ual Paramedic and Midwife Mel Gardiner (ASM) is the founder and creator of the State Obstetric Referral Call (STORC).

Passionate about woman-centred care she is revolutionising maternity care in the pre-hospital setting. The mother of three advocates strongly for her colleagues providing support through STORC 24-hours a day over the telephone. Obstetric patients represent less than 1% of all ambulance cases and can induce feelings of apprehension for even the most experienced paramedics due to their esoteric nature.

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Babies and mothers’ lives are at stake given the increased risks associated with unplanned out-ofhospital (UOOH) births. For every baby’s life saved there are multiple lives touched, not only within the family but also for the ambulance crews present.

By employing midwives, SJWA can provide woman-centred care which enables and empowers all pre-hospital staff regardless of rank to manage complex and challenging obstetric cases.

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STORC provides a 24-hour helpline service staffed by experienced midwives with extensive knowledge of the Clinical Practice Guidelines of the SJWA ambulance service. The team provide real time infield expertise, support, and guidance to frontline crews across the state of Western Australia.

STORC was rolled out on Mother’s Day 2023 and has ongoing support.

In fact, the team are expecting a delivery of their own, welcoming 2 more midwives to the service this month. STORC has responded to over 165 calls and assisted in the births of 30 babies to date. Regional and remote cases with a volunteer response was involved account for 10% of consults.

Sadly, not all pregnancies will result in a live baby. Mel is most proud of the aftercare that her team provide. STORC conduct debriefs for crews struggling to process cases they have responded to. Women who experience an early pregnancy loss, a still birth, or a newborn resuscitation challenge the most experienced paramedics. Crews are saddened by these devastating losses and their distress can be exacerbated by feelings of inadequacy due to a lack of education and clinical placement opportunities.

Debriefs have involved SJWA communications staff, on road crews, and counsellors from the Wellbeing and Support team.

External stakeholders including Private Practice Midwives, Drs from Obstetrics, Neonatology, and the Emergency Department have also contributed to promote mental health and wellbeing.

The initiative has been highly successful since its inception and has saved lives on several occasions when assisting with UOOH births.

• Recognised by the Western Australian Country Health Service (WACHS) for “advanced communication, teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving between internal WACHS streams and external stakeholders” for a regional preterm breech birth consultation.

• Finalist in the CAA “Excellence in Patient Care” Awards 2024.

• Finalist in the Maternity Service of the year at the 2024 Australian College of Midwives (ACM) awards.

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Research First

Evaluation of the Ambulance Victoria-Victorian Virtual Emergency Department Referral Pathway Emily Mahony

T

he establishment of the Ambulance Victoria pathway into the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) service introduced a video-enabled telehealth consultation service with an emergency physician for patients who may not need to attend the emergency department (ED).

The rising number of patient presentations to emergency medical services (EMS), further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has placed a significant strain on health systems globally.(1, 2) In Australia, previous research has shown that emergency ambulances have been increasingly used for the transport of patients with non-urgent conditions, contributing to ED overcrowding and reducing the availability of ambulance resources.(3, 4)

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Northern Health, a large health service in Melbourne’s north, established the VVED in 2020 as a new model of care for patients with COVID-19 symptoms living in the hospital’s catchment. The aim of the VVED was to provide timely access to emergency healthcare for patients who may not need to attend the ED. In October 2021, the VVED expanded its health professional (including Ambulance Victoria paramedics) referral pathway statewide with an increased scope to include non-COVID-19 emergency presentations.

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Methodology

Next steps

The aim of our evaluation was to understand the utilisation of VVED by AV and its subsequent impact on ambulance performance, service efficiency and patient care. This analysis included consecutive presentations to ambulance between October 2021 and May 2023, where data could be linked to VVED records. An equivalent control group was established utilising the VVED inclusion/exclusion criteria to understand differences in case times. Interrupted time-series analyses were used to evaluate the impact of VED on Code 1 response performance, non-transports and reattendances to ambulance within 24 hours.

Our evaluation demonstrated that the implementation of an AV-VVED pathway contributed to significant improvements in both response performance and service efficiency and has set a precedent for telehealth models of care within ambulance. The findings supported the implementation of the service into usual business, ensuring robust mechanisms were established to continue to monitor the efficacy and safety of the service.

Findings The evaluation included 33,821 referrals to VVED, the majority of which were for non-COVID-19 relatedconditions (72%). Of these referrals, 7% presented with shortness of breath (respiratory rate [RR] ≥25), 15% with borderline hypoxia (oxygen saturation [SpO2] 92-94%) and 14% with chest pain. Of patients referred to VVED, 75% were discharged at scene, and experienced median total case-time savings of 21 minutes compared to comparator cases not utilising the service. Time-series analyses demonstrated that the implementation of VVED was associated with a 9% relative improvement in Code 1 response performance and 18% relative increase of nontransports by the completion of the evaluation period.

Our findings also showed that VVED was associated with a 13% relative increase in the proportion of reattendances to ambulance within 24 hours.

References: 1. Lowthian JA, Cameron PA, Stoelwinder JU, Curtis A, Currell A, Cooke MW, et al. Increasing utilisation of emergency ambulances %J Australian Health Review.

2011;35(1):63-9.

2. Andrew E, Nehme Z, Stephenson M, Walker T, Smith K. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Demand for Emergency Ambulances in Victoria, Australia. Prehospital Emergency Care. 2022;26(1):23-9.

3. Andrew E, Nehme Z, Cameron P, Smith K. Drivers of Increasing Emergency Ambulance Demand. Prehospital Emergency Care. 2020;24(3):385-93.

4. Lowthian JA, Curtis AJ, Cameron PA, Stoelwinder JU, Cooke MW, McNeil JJ. Systematic review of trends in emergency department attendances: an Australian perspective. Emergency medicine journal : EMJ. 2011;28(5):373-7.

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Sustainability First

Sustainability in Ambulance Services

White paper Dr. Shohreh Majd

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www.caa.net.au

T

he Sustainability in Ambulance Services Whitepaper represents a critical step toward addressing the environmental impacts of emergency healthcare.

Produced by the Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA), it outlines a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainability into the day-to-day operations of ambulance services, a sector typically overlooked in environmental discussions. This whitepaper emphasises the need to balance high-quality patient care with environmental responsibility, highlighting the complex relationship between healthcare services and the environment.

Importance of Sustainability in Ambulance Services Sustainability in ambulance services is not only a question of environmental stewardship but also an economic and social imperative. Ambulance services, integral to public health, contribute significantly to carbon emissions, resource consumption, and waste production, much like other healthcare sectors. With the growing threat of climate change and its direct impact on human health, the urgency of transitioning to more sustainable practices within the ambulance sector has never been greater. This whitepaper provides a roadmap for reducing environmental degradation while ensuring that essential emergency services are not compromised.

One of the critical aspects addressed is the growing recognition of climate change's impact on healthcare systems worldwide. The healthcare sector, including emergency medical services, plays a dual role: it is both a victim of environmental changes and a contributor to environmental harm. Increased temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and the rising prevalence of climate-related health conditions are stretching the capacity of healthcare systems globally. Ambulance services, which must operate in real time and often under adverse conditions, are especially vulnerable. Hence, developing sustainable practices in this area is vital to ensuring resilience, improving operational efficiency, and reducing ecological footprints.

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Sustainability First

Key Themes in the Whitepaper The whitepaper takes a broad view of sustainability, recognising the need for a multifaceted approach. It emphasises the following key themes:

Environmental Governance and its Evolution A significant portion of the whitepaper is dedicated to the historical context of environmental governance, highlighting key global initiatives such as the United Nations’ resolutions, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement. These milestones have laid the groundwork for policy frameworks that guide various sectors, including healthcare, in addressing environmental challenges. For ambulance services, understanding these global efforts helps contextualise the urgent need for action at both local and national levels.

The whitepaper stresses that ambulance services, like all healthcare providers, are bound by these broader environmental regulations and agreements.

While ambulance services may not be the largest polluters, their contribution to carbon emissions through fuel consumption, energy use, and waste generation is substantial enough to warrant targeted sustainability measures.

In this context, aligning ambulance services with global environmental governance frameworks is not just an ethical responsibility but a strategic necessity.

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Sustainable Practices in Ambulance Services At the heart of the whitepaper are practical recommendations for incorporating sustainability into ambulance operations. One of the central themes is the reduction of carbon emissions, particularly using alternative energy sources for ambulance fleets. The paper discusses the potential for transitioning from fossil fuelpowered vehicles to electric and solar-powered ambulances. Electric ambulances, already being piloted in some regions, offer a promising solution to reducing the carbon footprint of emergency services.

While the upfront cost of such technology may be higher, the long-term environmental and economic benefits make it a viable option. Solar-powered ambulances, though still in the early stages of development, could further enhance sustainability, especially in areas with abundant sunlight.

Another area where ambulance services can make significant strides is in optimising dispatch systems. The whitepaper suggests the integration of computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems to improve response efficiency while minimising unnecessary vehicle movements.

Efficient dispatching can reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions, contributing to both environmental goals and cost savings. In addition, adopting environmentally friendly driving practices and regular vehicle maintenance further reduce the environmental impact of ambulance fleets.

Waste Management and Recycling in Ambulance Services Waste management is a critical focus in the whitepaper, given the amount of disposable medical supplies, equipment, and packaging used in ambulance services. The paper highlights strategies for reducing waste generation, such as reusing medical devices where appropriate and recycling materials to minimise the amount of waste sent to landfills.

One of the key challenges ambulance services face is the classification and segregation of waste, as many medical items fall under hazardous or biohazardous categories. Proper training and awareness programs for staff are essential to ensuring that waste is managed in compliance with both environmental and health regulations.

The whitepaper advocates for reducing single-use plastic items, which are prevalent in emergency medical settings. Replacing plastics with biodegradable alternatives and investing in sustainable medical equipment are viable ways to achieve this. By promoting responsible procurement practices that prioritise environmentally friendly products, ambulance services can significantly reduce their environmental footprint.

www.caa.net.au

Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy Use The whitepaper also tackles the sustainability of ambulance stations and infrastructure. Ambulance stations, like other healthcare facilities, consume vast amounts of energy and water. Integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, can reduce dependence on traditional energy grids and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The paper highlights how energy-efficient technologies, like LED lighting and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, can also contribute to sustainability goals.

Water conservation is another area where ambulance services can lead by example. Strategies such as rainwater harvesting, and water recycling systems can help reduce water consumption. Additionally, incorporating sustainable design principles when building or renovating ambulance stations can create facilities that are both environmentally friendly and more cost-effective in the long run.

Climate Change and Public Health Impacts The whitepaper makes a strong case for the interconnectedness of climate change and public health, particularly within the context of emergency medical services. As global temperatures rise, ambulance services are increasingly required to respond to climate-related health emergencies, such as heat strokes, respiratory illnesses, and injuries resulting from extreme weather events. The burden on healthcare systems, including ambulance services, will continue to grow unless proactive measures are taken to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts.

Ambulance services are uniquely positioned to observe firsthand the health effects of environmental degradation. The whitepaper stresses the importance of integrating public health considerations into sustainability efforts, ensuring that environmental policies do not compromise patient care. On the contrary, adopting sustainable practices can enhance the capacity of ambulance services to respond to emergencies more efficiently and with fewer disruptions caused by extreme weather events.

The Future of Sustainable Ambulance Services The whitepaper concludes by outlining a vision for the future of ambulance services, where sustainability is embedded in every aspect of operations. Achieving this requires a concerted effort across multiple dimensions—government policies, industry standards, and individual actions. Ambulance services can lead the way by setting ambitious sustainability targets, from reducing carbon emissions and energy use to minimising waste and promoting responsible procurement.

Implementing the strategies outlined in this whitepaper will not only benefit the environment but also improve the financial viability of ambulance services. Energy-efficient technologies, for example, can result in significant cost savings over time, while reducing waste can lower disposal costs. Furthermore, sustainable practices can enhance public perception, positioning ambulance services as leaders in environmental responsibility.

Read the Whitepaper

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Interested in becoming a part of The Directory? Contact admin@caa.net.au CAA helps provide an important link between the ambulance sector and businesses that provide goods and services for this industry. It’s instrumental in providing networking and partnering opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out to organisations of interest.

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Wellness First

a n i g n i v i r h T CAREER

WE LOVE

Women's Health in the Ambulance Sector MITCH MULLOOLY

T

his is a topic that is near and dear to my heart, and one that I am extremely passionate about – and, as women in the ambulance service, we're no strangers to the unique challenges our profession brings.

Between the adrenaline rushes of emergency calls, the emotional weight of patient care, and the physical demands of our work, we've learned to adapt and persevere. But let's have an honest conversation about how we can better support our own health while continuing to provide outstanding care to others.

The Sleep Puzzle: balancing hormones when every shift is different We all know the reality - just when our bodies adjust to night shifts, we're back on days, or that emergency call comes in right as we're about to clock off.

The impact on our hormonal balance is real, and many of us have experienced the effects firsthand: irregular cycles, mood changes, and energy fluctuations that can make our challenging job even more demanding.

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Creating sleep sanctuaries

Pre-sleep rituals that actually work in our world

You might smile at the term "sleep sanctuary," but after a high-stress shift, having a dedicated sleep space can make all the difference. Many of us have found success with:

We know the standard sleep advice doesn't always fit our reality, but these adaptable approaches have helped many colleagues:

• Blackout curtains (yes, even if you're sleeping between day shifts)

• A quick 10-minute yoga stretch (even in our uniforms before heading home)

Here are some suggestions:

• White noise machines to drown out the daytime bustle, or try sleep meditations • Keeping our sleeping area cool - around 18-20°C seems to be the sweet spot

• Simple breathing exercises between calls or during downtime • Creating a "winddown playlist" for the drive home

www.caa.net.au

Metabolic Health: more than just watching what we eat Let's be real - station snacks and quick meals between calls are part of our culture. But we've learned that maintaining metabolic health isn't just about weight management; it's about having the energy and stamina to perform at our best when our patients need us most.

Strategies that fit into our unpredictable days: Realistic time-restricted eating Rather than strict meal times, many of us have found success with flexible eating windows that adapt to our shifts.

For example: • During day shifts: eating between 0700-1500 • Night shifts: adjusting to 1900-0300 The key is finding a pattern that works with your specific rotation.

Station-friendly snacking We’ve all been there - starving after a complex call with no time for a proper meal. Some triedand-tested options: • Keep protein-rich snacks in your kit bag (protein bars are perfect, just watch the sugar content, and best before dates – speaking from experience!)

• Share healthy snack stations with your crew mates • Prep "emergency" food packs for those inevitably chaotic shifts

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Wellness First

Managing menopause in a high-performance environment

Nutrition that works with our reality

For those of us navigating menopause while working in the service, we face a unique set of challenges. Hot flushes during a cardiac arrest? Been there. Mood swings during a difficult patient interaction? We've managed those too. What's helping our colleagues cope: Temperature management on the go: We've gotten creative with staying comfortable:

The days of surviving on station coffee and vending machine snacks are hopefully behind us, but creating a sustainable nutrition plan that works with our unpredictable schedules takes some creativity.

Practical approaches that don't require a complete lifestyle overhaul can include:

Mental well-being: because we see things others don't Our profession exposes us to situations that most people never encounter. Managing stress isn't just about deep breathing (though that helps); it's about developing resilience while acknowledging the impact of our experiences. Some strategies that respect the intensity of our work might be:

Meal prep that actually happens Instead of ambitious meal prep plans, focus on:

Real-world stress management Techniques that can be used anywhere, anytime:

• Layering our uniforms strategically

• Quick-assembly meals using pre-prepped ingredients, think pre-chopped veges and fruit

• Keeping cooling towels in the vehicle

• Station-friendly recipes that can be shared with the crew

• Quick grounding exercises during clean-up

• Finding those perfect spots in the station where the AC hits just right

• "Grab and go" options that can survive a busy shift

• Team debrief rituals that actually help

Hydration that makes sense

Building emotional resilience

We all know we should drink more water, but let's talk about how to actually make it happen:

Because some calls stay with us longer than others:

Supporting our bodies through the transition Working with our healthcare providers, many of us have found relief through: • Targeted supplementation • Hormone therapy that fits our shift patterns • Alternative therapies that complement our work schedule

• Finding your perfect water bottle (and backup bottle) • Creating hydration habits tied to regular shift activities • Making your own electrolyte drinks that aren't loaded with sugar

• The "two-breath reset" between calls

• Creating support networks within our crews • Finding healthy ways to process difficult cases • Maintaining connections outside the service

Mitch Mullooly Health and Wellness Strategist Specialising in the wellbeing of first responders, Mitch is a Professional Advisor for Te Kaunihera Manapou, Paramedic Council of New Zealand; Senior Advisor for Fire and Emergency New Zealand; Advisory Board member for Te Kiwi Maia, The Courageous Kiwi; and proud CAA Women in Ambulance honour recipient.

Mitch is also a published author, speaker and feature columnist for several sector related magazines, communiques, webinars, and podcasts, and the creator of Eat|Train|Be - Fit for Duty.

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www.caa.net.au

Physical fitness for the long haul

Creating sustainable changes

After years in the service, we know that staying physically capable isn't just about passing fitness tests, or our annual CPR revalidations - it's about having a sustainable career and a healthy retirement. Think health-span over life-span.

Approaches that work for the long term should include:

We're in this career for the long haul, and making lasting changes means finding approaches that work with our unique lifestyle rather than against it. You’ve heard me talk about this before, but it’s worth a recap:

Functional fitness that makes sense Exercises that support our daily tasks, think push, pull, twist, lunge, reach, squat:

Setting realistic goals Focus on progress, not perfection: • Small, achievable changes that build over time • Flexible approaches that adapt to our shifting schedules

• Strengthening movements that mimic patient lifting and manual handling

• Supporting each other's health journeys

• Core work that protects our backs (extremely important!)

Building community

• Flexibility training that keeps us agile and mobile

• Sharing what works (and what doesn't) with colleagues

Recovery as a priority Because we can't pour from an empty cup: • Active recovery between shifts, which is also great for your mental health

Remember, we're in a profession that demands exceptional things from us every day.

Taking care of ourselves isn't selfish - it's essential for maintaining the high level of care our patients deserve. The strategies I talk about aren't rigid rules but rather a collection of approaches that have worked for many of us. Take what works for you, modify what doesn't, and keep supporting each other in staying healthy and strong for the challenging but rewarding career we've chosen.

And remember… sharing our experiences and supporting each other is one of the greatest strengths of our profession.

Because we're stronger together:

• Creating support networks across stations • Mentoring newer staff members

• Preventative exercises for common problem areas • Listening to our bodies and adjusting accordingly

Amazing things happen when women help other women.”

Kasia Gospos

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