Lincs: Life saving initiative wins national healthcare award

The partnership project between Lincs Fire and Rescue, East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) and Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Service (LIVES) was shortlisted for the national award after joining forces to take patients to hospital.

The Joint Ambulance Conveyance Project (JACP) involves some co-responders being mobilised to medical incidents in an ambulance vehicle.

At the same time, an EMAS paramedic also responds to the incident in a fast response car.

The paramedic assesses if the patient needs to go to hospital and, if so, travels with the patient in the ambulance providing any necessary treatment en route.

Lincs Fire and Rescue staff also have the capability of taking a patient to hospital.

Dr Simon Topham, clinical director for LIVES, said: “We are honoured that the JACP has received such an award.

“It is a testament to all the hard work of those involved, including the crews in Woodhall Spa, Long Sutton and Stamford, who embraced the challenge to deliver a new and innovative way of working.”

Steve Pratten, EMAS Community Response Manager said: “We were delighted to be involved in launching such a ground breaking initiative which several UK ambulance and fire services are considering introducing in their areas.

“Receiving this prestigious award really is the icing on the cake for everyone who worked so hard to make the scheme a success.”

Divisional commander at Lincs Fire and Rescue, Sean Taylor, said: “It’s fantastic news that we’ve won this award.

“It demonstrates how the emergency services are working together to deliver the best service possible for the residents of Lincolnshire.”

Coun Sue Woolley, executive councillor for NHS liaison and community engagement, added: “I am delighted for everyone who has been involved in this ground breaking project which has, without a doubt, enabled us to save lives.”