Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), J&K, Nazim Zai Khan, today launched the 8th edition of 108 Jammu and Kashmir emergency medical services magazine. Addressing the launch event, the Mission Director highlighted the significant contributions made by the 108 ambulance services in transporting patients to hospitals during emergencies.
He mentioned that more than 2,77,024 patients have availed this service, so far. The 108 ambulances also played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, serving 12,110 COVID patients, he added. The Mission Director urged upon the people to avail the free 108 ambulance service, which is fully equipped with life-saving support system and ensures better medical care and safety for patients.
He encouraged people to call the toll-free number 108 in case of any medical emergency, rather than transporting the patient in a private vehicle. Regarding the magazine, the Mission Director stated that its launch will generate awareness about the 108 ambulance service among the public.
Out of the 203 ambulances, 139 vehicles are equipped with advanced life support including ventilators, defibrillators, suction machines, nebulizers, syringe pumps and oxygen support systems, along with fully trained Emergency Medical Technicians for optimal patient care. Notably,1015 deliveries have been conducted successfully by 108 Emergency Medical Technicians at the scene or inside the ambulance.
During the Shri AmarnathJi Yatra, the 108 ambulance service provided assistance to over 1025Amarnath pilgrims. Also, 17 4x4 vehicles have been deployed in snowbound areas of Jammu & Kashmir to rescue patients during heavy snowfall, with 299 patients successfully rescued, so far, out of which 122 patients were pregnancy related.
Pertinently, the J&K government has an active MOU with M/s BVG India Limited since 24th March 2020 for running the 108 Ambulance services in the UT. They provide free ambulance services in every district of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, with 203 fully equipped ambulances offering pick-up services for emergency cases, referral cases and interfaculty transfers to patients. State Program Manager 108, Dr. ADS Manhas and Project Head, Mushtaq Ahmed of 108 Emergency Medical Services were also present at the launch event.