Question from Deputy Pádraig Rice - PQ 2314-26

To ask the Minister for Health if consideration will be given to establishing an expert panel on the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service model ( The HEMS Advocacy Group Ireland has proposed the establishment of an expert panel. According to the group, this expert panel should exclusively come from the international experienced prehospital community and should view: · Current service delivery. Our service delivery model currently is not in keeping with international practice. The clinical expertise and scope of practice in the current service model does not meet the needs of our patients and must be brought in line with international best practice. · RTC-related post mortem reports, which would yield significant evidence about the survivability of patients and quantification of the gap in care. This has been performed in many countries to show definite survivability (estimate 4-11%) and potential survivability (20-40%) with service enhancement with doctors.); and if she will make a statement on the matter.