With the commissioning of three new ambulances, the service by the Tobago Emergency Medical Service (TEMS) is poised to further enhance emergency response capabilities across the island.
Chief Executive Officer of the Tobago Regional Health Authority, Dr. Delmon Baker, said the commissioning of the ambulances is a significant investment in the island’s healthcare system, as it is aimed at improving emergency response.
He said each ambulance is valued at over $1.4 million, and there are plans for an additional five ambulances by the end of the fiscal year.
“Today is a proud and momentous day of the Tobago Regional Health Authority and by extension, the people of Tobago. This, the actual commissioning of these three ambulances, you didn’t get it. The actual commissioning is not just about adding vehicles to our fleet. It is about strengthening and shortening the critical lifeline that exists between Tobagonians and their healthcare delivery units, the hospitals.”
The new ambulances are designed to accommodate two patients at a time.
Dr. Baker said the TRHA is working alongside its technical teams and suppliers to ensure that future units meet modern healthcare standards.
He also assured that the newly commissioned ambulances would be put into immediate operation.
“So you won’t see them parked for six months somewhere. You will see them on the ground, caring for Tobagonians. The next eight will be single-patient ready, slightly more nimble and smaller, again with the most modern specifications necessary to prioritise quality care and quality care delivery in Tobago. As we officially commission these ambulances, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to serve, protect, and provide quality care for every Tobagonian.”
The CEO said the Tobago Regional Health Authority remains focused on enhancing healthcare services with further upgrades in the pipeline.