PNG Government Moves to Strengthen National Ambulance Service

 The National St John Ambulance is expected to receive formal legal recognition as Papua New Guinea's national ambulance service under proposed legislation announced by Prime Minister James Marape in Parliament on July 15.

The proposed law is intended to establish a legal framework defining the organisation's role in delivering emergency medical services nationwide while supporting the future growth and coordination of ambulance services throughout the country.

PNG Government Moves to Strengthen National Ambulance Service

National St John Ambulance Commissioner and Chief Executive Kai Tane welcomed the government's proposal, saying the legislation would provide a stronger foundation for ambulance operations and the continued development of emergency medical services in PNG.

Mr Tane said the proposed law would support the expansion of ambulance services, strengthen clinical governance, build a skilled ambulance workforce and improve coordination between health authorities, hospitals, police, fire services and disaster response agencies.

He said the organisation looked forward to working closely with the Government, the National Department of Health and other key stakeholders as the proposed legislation progresses through public consultations and the parliamentary process.

Mr Tane also acknowledged the Government's commitment to reviewing funding arrangements for ambulance services, noting that providing emergency medical care across Papua New Guinea's diverse and challenging terrain continued to present significant operational demands.

National St John Ambulance is responsible for delivering pre-hospital emergency care and ambulance services across the country and reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government agencies, health authorities and local communities to improve access to lifesaving emergency medical services.