Mid-Ulster have worst ambulance response times in Northern Ireland

by Gráinne Connolly

Mid-Ulster Residents suffer some of the worst Ambulance Response times in Northern Ireland, with the possibility of the worst in the UK and Ireland. 

65% of all life saving ambulance calls in the district did not arrive under the targeted time of 8 minutes. 

There were only 35% on average from June 2015, that were reached within the time frame. 

Despite not having a 100% target for life saving calls, the overall regional target is 72.5% with a local target of 67.5%. This proves Mid Ulster isn't close to reaching either. 

Although in some cases the goal was met; they had the rapid response vehicle to thank due to ambulances in the area taking as much as 2 hours to arrive after transporting a patient to the nearest hospital. 

The issue has come about following the removal of acute care at the Mid Ulster hospital back in 2010. 

It's resulted in having to travel to Antrim or Craigavon for the nearest A and E. For the Mid Ulster ambulance service, this means travelling further with patients, which takes longer to get there and get back for another life saving call. 

It's described as a vicious circle that's been discussed as far back as 2010, however further investments have yet to be put into action.