Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith today welcomed the addition of a new Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) general ambulance to Penrith Ambulance Station to support local paramedics and patients with special needs.
Stuart Ayres said the new MPV general ambulance has the capability to transport patients who weigh up to 300 kilograms.
“This is a first for Penrith. NSW Ambulance has trialled these vehicles to test their abilities and now we have seven new MPV general ambulances across the state with one here in Penrith,” Stuart Ayres said.
“The new MPV general ambulance is giving our local paramedics the equipment and technology to support them in their life-saving work.
“It is capable of transporting patients who weigh up to 300 kilograms but it can care for non-bariatric patients too.
“The new vehicle, which has a fit out value of $152,000, is a welcome addition to Penrith Ambulance Station and is equipped with mechanical aids in the lifting and management of patients to reduce health and safety risks.
“For patients with extra needs there is clearly a need to deliver these specialised services and ensure the right resources are available to support them.
“I’m incredibly pleased to see our local ambulance service has been enhanced. Our local paramedics provide both life-changing and life-saving care and this enhancement will allow them to get on with their jobs safely.”
Health Minister Jillian Skinner launched the new vehicles this week.
“These vehicles are an important investment as they deliver benefits for both patients and paramedics,” Mrs Skinner said.
“I have the utmost respect and admiration for the state’s paramedics and believe they should have the best resources available to carry out their life-saving work.”
Senior Assistant Commissioner Michael Homden, Executive Director of Operational Logistics at NSW Ambulance, welcomed the addition of new ambulances to the growing MPV fleet.
“The rollout of these specialist ambulances is an example of how NSW Ambulance is providing infrastructure to meet an extensive range of patient needs in the community,” Mr Homden said.
The NSW Government boosted the NSW Ambulance budget this year to a record $752 million – an increase of $30 million.
