Minister welcomes new paramedics

Published Thursday, 09 January, 2014 at 04:00 PM

Minister for Health
The Honourable Lawrence Springborg

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg has welcomed 22 new Advanced Care Paramedics into the Queensland Ambulance Service.

Mr Springborg said the Queensland Ambulance Service was world-renowned for delivering exceptional pre-hospital care and congratulated the new paramedics on their appointments.

“The Newman Government is committed to delivering the best possible ambulance service focussed on patient care,” Mr Springborg said.

“Our CanDo Government has already delivered an additional 120 paramedics over and above attrition rates and invested $51 million this financial year to deliver 155 vehicles and 11 new and replacement stations.

“While the former Labor Government ignored reports recommending the Queensland Ambulance Service should be aligned with Queensland Health, we took action and patients are reaping the results.

“Aligning boundaries has seen turnaround times in south east Queensland fall by around 12 minutes and Code 1 emergency response times have also been reduced.”

Mr Springborg said the new Advanced Care Paramedics had worked hard to complete their studies and were prepared for the role.

“Paramedics are consistently voted as the country’s most trusted professionals and I have no doubt our new recruits will uphold that reputation,” he said.

“Queenslanders can take comfort in knowing that each of these new paramedics has gained world-class skills which will help them assist the sick and injured.

“I would like to again congratulate them and wish them all the best for their new career.”

[ENDS] 9 January 2014

Media Contact:
Alexandra Foley 0419 794 294

The graduates will take up positions at the following ambulance stations:

Rockhampton
Rockhampton South
Kawana
Buderim
Caloundra
Nathan
Woodridge
Capalaba
Wynnum
South Brisbane
Chermside
Narangba
Mitchelton
Roma Street
Ashgrove
Spring Hill
Springfield
North Mackay
Mackay

To arrange an interview with a new paramedic please phone Queensland Ambulance Service Media on 07 3635 3310.