17 October 2024

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and MEC Nomagugu Simelane join the global community in commemorating World Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Day.

Simelane said this day serves as a tribute to the brave and selfless men and women in our EMS teams who, without hesitation, respond to the call of duty in times of crisis, often placing their own lives at risk to save others.

"As we commemorate World Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Day on 17 October 2024, we salute all our EMS personnel, who do everything possible, and even risk their own lives to come to the rescue of those who are in distress. You are our heroes, and we cannot thank you enough.

"We call on the public to look after our EMS personnel, as well as their vehicles and equipment; and ensure that they never get subjected to any acts of criminality or violence. All individuals with nefarious intentions to cause harm to them must be isolated and reported to law enforcement authorities," said MEC Simelane.

In KwaZulu-Natal, EMS personnel work under incredibly challenging circumstances, responding swiftly to emergencies, providing life-saving care, and ensuring that patients reach health facilities safely and in time amid a plethora of logistical challenges.

"They are on the frontlines, whether during natural disasters, road accidents, medical emergencies, or community health crises, offering not only medical expertise but also compassion and comfort in critical moments," said Simelane.

Simelane said however, their ability to carry out this crucial work is often hindered by acts of criminality, which include attacks on personnel, hijacking of ambulances, and theft of medical equipment. She said these actions not only endanger the lives of EMS teams but also jeopardise the lives of those in need of urgent care.

"It is our collective responsibility to ensure the safety and protection of EMS personnel as they serve our communities. Therefore, we urge members of the public to respect and support our EMS teams, and to be vigilant in reporting any threats to their safety. Criminal acts against EMS personnel must be condemned in the strongest possible terms, as they rob our society of the critical services needed in moments of life and death," said Simelane.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is committed to ensuring that our EMS teams are equipped, protected, and supported in their mission to save lives. On this World EMS Day, let us stand together in gratitude and solidarity with all our EMS professionals. They truly are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system.