20 October 2008

Minister receives report into Ambulance Service

NSW Minister for Health, John Della Bosca, said he had today received a copy of an Upper House report into the Ambulance Service of NSW.

"I intend to read the report closely and give it proper consideration," Mr Della Bosca said.

"There have been a number of recent independent investigations and examinations of the Ambulance Service of NSW and action has already been taken on many of the issues examined by the Upper House.

"I do not and will not tolerate bullying or harassment in any form.

"We take these incidents seriously and the Director-General of Health and Chief Executive of Ambulance NSW have both given an ongoing commitment to address this issue.

"In the last year, 284 new Ambulance staff were provided training in responding to bullying and harassment and compulsory Respectful Workplace training has commenced for all ambulance staff.

"Since being appointed Health Minister a month ago, I have been meeting with Ambulance personnel in the field and I have been impressed by their dedication, professionalism and skills.

"The very low attrition rate among Ambulance personnel and the enthusiasm and commitment they show point to an organisation with a motivated workforce.

"The Upper House inquiry has been chaired by the Opposition, hearing from a small sample of the 4000 strong Ambulance Service.

"Our hardworking Paramedics take great pride in their work and they are valued by the government and the community.

"My focus is to support the Ambulance Service and the paramedics who deliver lifesaving services for our community," he said.

Mr Della Bosca said the NSW Government had implemented a range of changes to the service following reviews by the Auditor-General and the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

"Just last year, the Auditor-General's Report commended the Ambulance Service for making significant reforms and substantially implementing the wide ranging recommendations from their earlier report," he said.

The same independent report praised the Ambulance Service for making extensive improvements in:

• training for staff to manage rapid changes in technology and clinical procedures
• range and accuracy of data
• performance indicators.

"We're implementing a practical training program to improve the skills of all staff and managers in dealing with workplace conflict," Mr Della Bosca said.

"Frontline and middle managers are most likely to come across instances of inappropriate workplace behaviour and they are best placed to address it when it occurs.

"To assist these managers, compulsory management training has been introduced, which will also be a prerequisite for staff seeking management positions.

"The NSW Government is supporting the Ambulance Service with a budget of over $340 million - delivering more paramedics, ambulance vehicles and more resources to deliver important emergency health services to the community," he added.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au