Strengthening its fleet of emergency response units, the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority (HSA) has recently acquired a brand new state of the art ambulance which is already out on the road, playing its part in maintaining the health of Cayman’s residents.

Stephen Duval, Manager of the HSA’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) said the benefits of this new model of ambulance will greatly enhance the emergency services team’s capabilities in emergency situations.

“The ambulance is a Chevy 4500 Traumahawk series which is similar to our other two models that we currently have operational. The exterior features more lights which are maintenance-free LEDs, as well as additional high visibility graphics,” Duval said. “Inside there is improved access for patients entering and exiting the vehicle and better ergonomics for patients and staff as well as mounted and secured equipment. There are also console navigational and communication systems, as well as a reverse camera. We were able to customize this vehicle to meet our needs, making this ambulance the best fit for our EMS unit”, Duval said.

Lizzette Yearwood, CEO of the Health Services Authority said, “From both the quality and risk management perspective we are constantly looking at improving the overall operational and patient experience within the Emergency Medical Services unit. The improved features of our new ambulance will definitely assist us to fulfil this goal.”

Health Minister Osbourne Bodden commends the HSA for this latest enhancement to their service. “This new purchase by the HSA means Grand Cayman is better covered when it comes to emergency response. Three ambulances serve the island with emergency medical stations located in West Bay, George Town and North Side. This new ambulance will allow one of the older vehicles to now serve as a spare during required maintenance or when additional resources are needed”, Minister Bodden said.

“This means that emergency responders can be on the scene within as short a time frame as possible, which is vital in an emergency situation”, he said. “I am delighted to see that the provision of healthcare in the Cayman Islands continues to improve to best serve Cayman’s residents and visitors,” he said.

For more information about the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority, visit www.hsa.ky

Photo (L – R): Stephen Duval, Manager of the HSA’s Emergency Medical Services; Lizzette Yearwood, CEO, Health Services Authority; Jennifer Ahearn, Chief Officer in the Ministry of Health, Sports, Youth & Culture; EMS staff; Dr Elizabeth McLaughlin, Acting Chief Medical Officer; Osbourne Bodden, Minister of Health, Sports, Youth and Culture and Dr. Delroy Jefferson, HSA Medical Director.