Emergency drugs ban to be lifted

Nov 1 2006

STAFFORDSHIRE Ambulance chiefs have promised to lift a ban on lifesaving drugs used by community first responders.

Volunteer lifesavers went on strike when Staffordshire Ambulance Service stopped them using drugs which could save asthma, epilepsy, child croup and heart attack victims.

The ambulance service said it was acting on the advice of the regional strategic health authority over fears that first responders were not legally allowed to administer the drugs.

First responders argued that their use was approved by the Health Care Products Regulatory Agency this summer.

They agreed to go back on the road until the row was settled - but threatened to quit rather than stand by and watch patients die.

Now, following a meeting with first responders and Staffordshire Heath Authority's pharmacist, Staffordshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust chairman Robert Lake said: "We have reached an agreed commitment to move towards reinstating some of these drugs as soon as it is legal and safe to do so.

"But first responders recognise the complexities involved and that this may take a little time."

John Jones, spokesman for Staffordshire's first responders, said: "We were assured that this is purely a precautionary measure whilst the legalities of the situation are clarified.

"They clearly stated that they are working hard to get the drugs re-instated to the first responders' medical bags.

"It is hoped the problem can be resolved very quickly."

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