WN/R: Ambulance Service holds training to boost emergency response capacity

National Ambulance Service held a "Trainer of Trainers" programme to strengthen the capacity of its emergency medical personnel. The training was held at Sefwi Bekwai. The training focused on enhancing clinical skills and improving the quality of emergency care delivery across the region.

Key areas covered included patient care reporting (PCR) documentation and auditing, oxygen therapy, intravenous (IV) therapy, and effective team coordination during resuscitation, particularly the use of manual defibrillators and integration of CPR techniques. Paramedic Kponor K. Wonder facilitated the session, which featured both pre- and post-training assessments, which indicated significant improvement in participants' knowledge and practical skills. Acting Regional Administrative Manager, James Hackman, highlighted progress made and challenges facing the service. He noted that despite a projected population of over 927,000 by 2026, the region is currently grappling with a shortfall of 119 emergency medical technicians (EMTs). He indicated that operational performance continues to improve, with response times reduced to under 32 minutes and dispatch success rates increasing to 77.2% in 2025. The region has also recorded a rise in emergency cases attended, alongside improved efficiency despite limited staffing. He added that more than half of emergency cases require oxygen therapy.

The National Ambulance Service is expected to prioritise sustained training, improved logistics, stakeholder collaboration, and community outreach to further strengthen emergency response systems in the region.