Judith O'Brien

Below is a letter I wrote that was published in our local paper.

Dear Sir,

It was with interest I read the article featured in the Wangaratta Chronicle ‘Paramedic staff boost’ (Friday February 1, 2008).

For the Hume region to get 25 more of these highly respected men and women is welcome news.

But before this should happen, perhaps it would be more prudent of Rural Ambulance Victoria to ensure that there are enough emergency vehicles available to accommodate the extra personal.

On December 20, 2007 my husband complained of severe chest pains. After calling 000 we were told an ambulance was on the way. Next call it wasn’t. Apparently the Communications Officer determined that the accident at Glenrowan be given priority over my urgent pleas for help.

After crucial minutes had been wasted, the realisation came that we were not going to get any emergency assistance, so with no alternative, my husband was transported to the Wangaratta hospital by private car.

Shortly after arrival he went into cardiac arrest.

It is due to the brilliant treatment by the medical team in the emergency department that my husband is now well on the way to a full recovery.

The level of service from RAV to our family in time of desperate need was sadly lacking.

Hopefully, at some time soon procedures will be undertaken to improve response time and availability of emergency vehicles.

Yours sincerely,

JUDITH O'BRIEN,
Wangaratta resident