News Flash
23 November
Reported: Vishal Mayur
 |
Loud sirens, while essential for traffic clearance, can exacerbate patient stress during transport, while rural regions face critical gaps in ambulance availability |
Bengaluru: Ambulance sirens are vital for ensuring swift passage through traffic during emergencies. Their primary purpose is to alert other vehicles and pedestrians to the urgency of the situation, allowing the emergency vehicle to reach its destination quickly. However, the loud noise, while serving its purpose on the road, has a significant impact on patients inside the vehicle.
Patients in ambulances are often critically ill, requiring a calm and stable environment. The loud, constant sound of the siren can add stress and discomfort, potentially worsening their condition. Despite the emphasis on maintaining a quiet and peaceful environment in hospitals for patient recovery, the same consideration does not appear to be extended to the patient’s experience during transport.
This raises a concern about whether the current system prioritizes patient well-being during transit. Possible solutions include quieter or adjustable sirens that still alert traffic but reduce the noise disturbance for patients. Additionally, incorporating soundproofing in ambulances could help minimize the impact of sirens on the patient.
Another issue that needs addressing is the availability of ambulance services in rural areas. While cities like Bangalore are typically well-served by emergency medical teams, rural areas often lack timely access to these services. A recent case in Somanahalli, just 25 kilometers from Bangalore, saw a patient waiting over an hour for an ambulance, a delay that could have worsened their condition.
To address these gaps, more local emergency response teams could be stationed in rural areas, ensuring faster response times. Enhanced communication systems, including better GPS tracking and emergency call centers, could streamline ambulance dispatch and improve response efficiency.
In conclusion, while sirens are crucial for road safety, their effect on patients during transport should be reconsidered. Meanwhile, expanding ambulance services in rural areas is necessary to ensure all patients receive timely medical care. Both issues require attention from healthcare authorities to improve emergency care nationwide.