Learn @ Work case studies (2004): Community Emergency Response Team, Lang Lang
In November 2003 the Town Committee of Lang Lang under the Community Capacity Building Initiative applied for and was successful in its application to be a part of the Community Emergency Response Team program auspiced by Rural Ambulance Victoria & Metropolitan Ambulance Service.
After the announcement that Lang Lang along with four other towns had been successful, we initially had 26 people express interest in joining the program. As training commenced a few dropped out due to other commitments and we now have 18 people on roster.
Team members are trained and equipped in advanced first aid, including oxygen therapy and cardiac defibrillation, the only definitive treatment for some one who collapses of sudden cardiac arrest. The members are rostered on in pairs and will be dispatched by MAS to Code 1 critical medical emergencies. CERT covers an area of over 600 sq.km. MAS have provided a marked response vehicle and all the medical equipment we carry.
We have direct contact with the ambulance comms centre via radio and mobile phone. We are able to speak directly to the senior clinician and our early reports from the scene will assist the paramedics, and help determine if additional ambulances are required, particularly when it comes to road accidents.
The members of the CERT Team have trained for well over 80 hours working together and learning first hand experiences from MICA paramedics. We also meet every Tuesday night for additional training and general team operations. We are required to reassess on equipment such as the Semi-Auto Defibrillator, oxy therapy and the administration of drugs.
The team comes from a wide range of occupations from mechanics, nurses, shift workers, community workers and housewives, aged between 25 and 60. This mix of people gives us varied hours of availability and a good mix of personalities. Our basic aim and how the team benefits the community is to shorten the response time for critically ill patients who need care with what our training and equipment can provide.
Matthew Hampton is the Team Leader. For information about CERT please call 0438 350 629. CERT's postal address is PO Box 200, Lang Lang, Victoria, 3984.