A comprehensive regulatory framework for ambulance services is being proposed to ensure emergency medical providers across Guyana meet established safety requirements, maintain appropriate medical equipment and employ qualified personnel.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, presented the Emergency Medical Services Bill in the National Assembly on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), on behalf of Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony.
The bill seeks to establish Guyana’s first comprehensive regulatory framework for pre-hospital emergency medical services, providing for the licensing, monitoring and regulation of ambulance operators.
AG Nandlall explained that a regulatory authority will be established to oversee emergency medical service providers and ensure compliance with prescribed operational standards.
Under the proposed law, ambulances operating within the public and private healthcare systems, including those attached to the Guyana Fire Service, will have to meet requirements governing vehicle specifications, medical equipment and the qualifications of personnel.
The legislation also seeks to address gaps in emergency healthcare delivery, particularly the provision of timely medical intervention and stabilisation of patients before they are transported to hospital.
The bill must be approved by Parliament before it can become law.