New technology results in improved patient care

News release | 19 March 2015

New technology results in improved patient care

A new, high tech system is helping paramedics improve patient care in the Wellington and Wairarapa regions.

Known as Mobile Data Terminals (MDT), the system uses integrated apps on Samsung tablets fitted into all Wellington Free ambulances.

The app streamlines a range of data about the incident call-out. Paramedics receive location information and GPS navigation, and the communications centre gets real time reporting of both patient and crew status.

Wellington Free Ambulance service development manager Paul Fake says the technology also carries a dispatch tool and management system which gives paramedics updated information on the incident and the patient before they reach a job.

“This vital clinical information means the crew can tailor a management plan for the case they are assigned, ahead of time,” says Mr Fake.

“Ultimately, the more information they have access to, the better the patient outcome.”

Mr Fake says the technology is modern, well tested and user friendly.

“This is a big plus for our paramedics and operations team,” he says.

“They can do much more with the new equipment, and down the track, it will mean better quality care for the patient.”

Mr Fake says this technology could be further developed to support paramedics in other ways, such as completing medicine supply and vehicle checks.

“We are still exploring how we can further utilise the MDT system to provide even better ambulance services,” he says.

Wairarapa paramedic Andrew Gladding says the technology will make communication and documentation much easier.

“We save valuable minutes getting to the patient with this new MDT using features like automatic route planning,” Mr Gladding says.

“We can also focus on the information we receive about our patient’s needs, including updates from the person calling 111, which can be vitally important.

“This means everyone who will care for the patient are as prepared as they can be.”

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