THE Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) has pledged to work with local communities, after completing the "most extensive national consultation in the organisation's history".
Publishing its strategic framework for the future of ambulance care, it says its vision is to deliver the best possible care for people, whenever and wherever it is needed. But is has also warned that any improvements will have to be delivered agai
nst the backdrop of tough financial times, whilst also providing value for money.
The news was broadly welcomed across the north-east where people in rural areas have complained for years about the standard of service they receive.
Pauline Howie, SAS Chief Executive, said: "In remote and rural areas we have the opportunity to use the skills of our highly trained staff in a much more innovative way that should result in fewer trips to hospital and better treatment in the community. We will work with communities and partners to develop tailored and integrated healthcare that works best for the community being served. This work has already been progressing and a number of models for care in remote and rural areas have been developed with the Remote and Rural Implementation Group."
In 2008, residents of Braemar and Aboyne were left fuming when ambulances based in their villages were replaced with a full-time vehicle in Ballater. A subsequent scheme to operate a retained station from Braemar failed due to a lack of qualified volunteers.
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Lib Dem MSP Mike Rumbles said: "Having worked very closely with the Scottish Ambulance Service in recent years to improve provision in Upper Deeside, it is clear to me that there are both different needs and expectations in remote and rural areas."
Asked whether he was hopeful that this latest pledge from SAS would have positive implications for the people of Braemar, Chairman of Braemar Community Council, John McPherson said: "I am always hopeful! Time will tell how successful their strategy will be on the ground."
