Insight Point:
The Welsh Ambulance Service’s £23 million technology refresh, which includes the installation of the Mobile Data Vehicle Solution (MDVS), is a significant step towards improving communication between control rooms and frontline ambulance crews. The upgrade will enhance the delivery of care to patients and minimize disruptions to day-to-day operations.
Welsh Ambulance Service Implements High-Tech Upgrades to Improve Communication
In a bid to enhance communication between control rooms and frontline ambulance crews, the Welsh Ambulance Service is carrying out a £23 million technology refresh on its fleet of ambulances. This ambitious project involves the installation of the Mobile Data Vehicle Solution (MDVS) in approximately 800 ambulances across Wales. The upgrade, which includes a new vehicle data router and tablet device, is expected to be completed by late spring 2024.
The MDVS has already been tested in a dozen ambulances located in Haverfordwest, Bangor, Newtown, Merthyr Tydfil, and Bargoed, and these vehicles have successfully responded to over 2,000 incidents. The early results of the testing phase have been promising, highlighting the potential of this technology to revolutionize communication within the Welsh Ambulance Service.
A New Era in Communication
According to Jonny Sammut, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s director of digital, reliable communication technology is crucial for the smooth functioning of the ambulance service. The technology refresh signifies a new era in communication, one that will strengthen the vital link between control room colleagues and the ambulance crews delivering care in communities.
Collaboration with partners in sourcing and installing the new equipment has allowed the refresh to be completed locally, minimizing vehicle downtime and operational disruptions. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in ensuring the success of the project.
Leading the Way in Ambulance Communication Systems
The technology refresh is not limited to the Welsh Ambulance Service alone. The Ambulance Radio Programme (ARP), which developed the MDVS, is leading the effort to replace communication systems for ambulance trusts in both England and Wales. This comprehensive upgrade will see a further 780 ambulance vehicles in Wales fitted with the high-tech MDVS.
ARP director Duncan Bray expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration between Panasonic and Telent, which has supported the implementation of the MDVS in Wales. This successful collaboration serves as a prime example of how working together can benefit all parties involved. The recent go-live for the Welsh Ambulance Service continues the ARP’s track record of successful MDVS deployments to other ambulance trusts across England.
In addition to the ARP, the Welsh Ambulance Service is collaborating with Terrafix, Telent, Panasonic, Centerprise, and Ordnance Survey (OS) on this ambitious upgrade. Telent engineers will be upgrading six ambulance vehicles per day, equipping them with ruggedized Panasonic Toughbook tablets and a vehicle data router capable of connecting to multiple bearers, including the Emergency Services Network. This resilient connection ensures reliable mobile communication networks across Wales.
Conclusion
The Welsh Ambulance Service’s £23 million technology refresh represents a significant investment in improving communication systems. By installing the Mobile Data Vehicle Solution (MDVS) in its fleet of ambulances, the service aims to enhance the delivery of care to patients by facilitating seamless communication between control rooms and frontline crews.
This ambitious project, led by the Ambulance Radio Programme (ARP), highlights the power of collaboration in driving innovation. The successful implementation of the MDVS in Wales is a testament to the combined efforts of Panasonic, Telent, Terrafix, Centerprise, and Ordnance Survey (OS).
As the technology refresh continues, the Welsh Ambulance Service is taking a proactive approach to ensure that its fleet is equipped with the latest communication technology. By doing so, they are not only improving the efficiency of their operations but also demonstrating their commitment to providing the best possible care to patients across Wales.
