Ambulance dispatch and satellite navigation systems
A stage one alert has been issued to ensure ambulance satellite navigation systems are up-to-date.
Ambulances are expected to provide a rapid response to life-threatening situations. If delayed, this can impact on patient safety and outcome. Ambulance vehicles should have satellite navigation systems that assist crews to identify the location of the emergency and are up-to-date with the latest road layouts, addresses and new build information. However, reports to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) suggest some ambulance satellite navigation systems may not be up-to-date with new locations, resulting in delays.
This alert focuses on ambulance vehicles, but any NHS provider relying on satellite navigation systems for providing urgent healthcare should be aware of the requirement for regular system updates.