20 November 2014
The Jersey Emergency Transfer Service (JETS) has been awarded a £3,000 grant by the Lloyds Bank Community Fund 2014.
JETS is responsible for transferring patients to and from the UK for both emergency and elective procedures that cannot be performed in Jersey. Over the last 10 years the number of flights has increased three-fold and there are now more than 300 annually. This number is set to increase as advances in medical treatments are offered, coinciding with a rise in numbers of elderly Islanders who are most likely to require access to such treatments.
JETS strives to provide the best service possible with the right staff and at the right time for the people of Jersey. The intention is to use the grant, which followed an online vote by members of the public, to enhance the service, particularly regarding training provided to doctors, nurses and paramedics. These staff will be given access to new innovative teaching methods such as simulation training and e-learning platforms that will offer practice in a safe environment and easier access to information and assessment.
“When practice and training is provided through simulation, staff confidence and skills improve and they are better prepared to deal with true-life scenarios,” said JETS Manager Ryan McNay. “Often it may be difficult to train due to limited space on the aircraft, so training in a simulated environment which allows access for multiple staff at the same time is a more efficient use of time and resources.”
Positive impact on Islanders
Helen O’Shea, Managing Director of Jersey General Hospital, added: “The Lloyds Bank Community Fund will make a big difference to JETS through the introduction of new methods of enhancing the skills and confidence of our clinical teams. This will have a positive impact on hundreds of Islanders each year. I am very proud of the team and their work and am delighted this has been recognised by Lloyds and the member of the public who voted.”