HMC unveils new fleet of 100 emergency ambulances

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has unveiled the first of a new fleet of 100 emergency ambulances that will be on the road in Qatar from next month. Built to world class specifications, the new vehicles have narrower bodies to enable faster progress through traffic, enhanced warning systems, vastly improved safety features for all occupants, and a new, state-of-the-art stretcher system, the HMC said in a media announcement. They are carefully designed to help the crew deliver improved care at the roadside and on the move and to enhance the patient's experience and safety whilst on board. HMC Managing Director Hanan Al Kuwari PhD speaking after the official launch, said the new fleet ensured the Ambulance Service was well equipped to serve the people of Qatar in any emergency situation. "Our Ambulance Service personnel are on the front line, saving lives every day. We know the best way to help them save more lives and do an even better job is to equip them with the best possible tools," said Dr. Al Kuwari. "This new fleet demonstrates HMC's commitment to deploying the latest technology and medical advancements in our 24/7 efforts to save lives," she said. Chief Executive Officer of the Ambulance Service, Dr. Robert Owen explained that the arrival, is the latest step in a range of improvements including establishment of a critical care paramedic programme, expansion of the Lifeflight program and a re-organisation of ambulance deployments across the country. "The new vehicles are smaller, faster and able to negotiate narrow streets and other terrain and have been customized especially for conditions in Qatar," he said. Every new vehicle is fitted with GPS location technology that will help shorten response times and electronic data transmission to enable fast transfer of clinical information direct to the hospital, in advance of arrival. They will also have mechanical heart and lung resuscitation equipment that will benefit patients who have had a heart attack. The HMC Ambulance Service is the first national ambulance service to fully implement these cutting edge technologies across a whole fleet of vehicles. Based on a Mercedes-Benz chassis, the new vehicles will be part of a bigger specialized fleet that already includes Toyota Landcruiser Prado rapid response vehicles, specialized Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) vehicles, and mountain bikes and quad bikes for difficult-to-access areas. These ground-based resources are supported by the Lifeflight Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS).