The HSE National Ambulance Service has been recognised by The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) as an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) for emergency dispatching.
IAED is the standard-setting organisation for emergency dispatch services worldwide. Accreditation (and subsequent re-accreditation) from the IAED is the highest distinction given to emergency communication centres, certifying that the centre is performing at or above the established standards for the health sector.
The IAED said centres that earn ACE status are the embodiment of dispatch done right, and have demonstrated strong local oversight, rigorous quality processes, and a commitment to data-driven continuous improvement.
The call taking/dispatch function is operated by the National Ambulance Service National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) which operates across two sites, Dublin and Ballyshannon. NEOC utilises Advanced Medical Priority Dispatch System (AMPDS) using international standards in triaging and prioritising emergency calls.
Robert Morton, Director of the HSE National Ambulance Service said, “The National Ambulance Service is delighted to have been recognised by IAED as an Accredited Center of Excellence for emergency dispatching. This recognition demonstrates the high standards to which our service operates and is a testament to the hard work and dedicationshown byour staff as we strive to provide a caring and professional service to the public at times of need”
“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement”, said Christof Chwojka, Accreditation Board Chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated calltakers, dispatchers, and leadership team at the National Ambulance Service for their commitment to quality, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their community can count on these first responders to do an outstanding job.”
Kim Rigden, Associate Director of Accreditation, IAED said, “This process is undertaken by communications centers who desire to be the best of the best. Achieving ACE confirms it. The National Ambulance Service should be very proud of this achievement and the wonderful service they provide to the community and their emergency responders.”
Accreditation is valid for a three-year period, during which all standards must be upheld.
