Raipur: In a major step towards strengthening emergency healthcare services, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off 370 new ambulances, including 300 Basic Life Support (BLS) and 70 Advanced Life Support (ALS) units, across the state. With this, the expansion of the 108 Ambulance Service has been implemented with immediate effect, ensuring faster medical response for citizens.
Target Response Time: 15 Minutes in Cities, 30 Minutes in Villages
The state government has set clear response time targets to improve emergency care delivery. Ambulances are expected to reach patients within:
- 15 minutes in urban areas
- 30 minutes in rural areas
CM Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that this initiative will play a crucial role in saving lives by ensuring timely medical assistance during emergencies.
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First-Ever Neonatal ALS Ambulances Introduced
In a landmark move, the state has introduced five Neonatal ALS ambulances for the first time. These specialized units are designed to provide critical care for newborns, enabling safe transfer to advanced medical facilities during emergencies.
Significant Improvements in Healthcare Infrastructure
The Chief Minister highlighted that healthcare services in Chhattisgarh have seen rapid improvements over the past two years. Upgradation of sub-health centres, primary health centres, and community health centres has reduced the need for patients to travel long distances for basic treatment.
Health Minister Calls It a Historic Initiative
Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal termed the launch a historic step, stating that millions of people will benefit from improved emergency medical services. He also noted that Chhattisgarh has become one of the few states in India to introduce neonatal ambulance services.
Ambulances Equipped with Advanced Medical Technology
The newly deployed ambulances are equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, including:
- Incubators and ventilators (for neonatal care)
- Defibrillators and ECG monitors
- Syringe pumps and nebulizers
- Oxygen support systems
Additionally, 24×7 Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and trained staff will be available, with expert doctors providing real-time guidance.
‘Moving ICU’ on Wheels
Both BLS and ALS ambulances are designed to function like mobile intensive care units (ICUs). With equipment such as BP monitors, pulse oximeters, and advanced diagnostic tools, patients can receive immediate care even before reaching the hospital.
Stronger Emergency Healthcare Network
This expansion will significantly enhance the accessibility, speed, and efficiency of emergency healthcare services across both urban and remote regions of Chhattisgarh. It is expected to build a more robust life-saving system and strengthen public trust in healthcare services.
The expansion of the 108 ambulance network marks a major milestone in Chhattisgarh’s healthcare journey. With faster response times, advanced medical equipment, and specialized neonatal care, the initiative is set to transform emergency medical services and save countless lives across the state.
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