The vehicles provide immediate response, via screened 999 calls, to residents in east and north Hertfordshire with the primary role of keeping them safely in their own homes. It is part of a package of interventions which make up the Vanguard programme, a health and social care initiative, funded by the NHS.When a carer in the Stevenage area called an ambulance for her elderly client the EiV responded.
She said: “I was moved and very impressed about the excellent service delivered by the EIV team of Mark the paramedic from the Ambulance Services and Martin the physiotherapist from Hertfordshire County Council. I didn't know that the service exists.
“The high standards of care and support delivered by Mark and Martin enabled my client to be assessed and treated at home in a familiar environment - excellent team work.
“In my opinion this type of service speeds up assessments, treatment and contributes towards preventing hospital admissions, without which it might have meant a possible hospital transfer and maybe occupying a bed while waiting to be assessed.”
When her elderly father had a fall at home KB called for an ambulance and an EiV crewed by paramedic George and occupational therapist Jaymi responded.
KB was visiting from Australia and was so impressed with the service she contacted us to say: “Their kind approach and practical support were so appreciated, as was the care and respectful manner they had towards my father.
“I understand that they are part of a pilot group giving this support to help keep elderly people in their own homes. What a great initiative!”
Vanguard Communications Lead NHS East and North Herts CCG Direct line: 01707 685142 [email protected] Website: www.enhertsccg.nhs.uk