Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jul 15: In a major move to make emergency medical services more efficient across the state, the Karnataka government has decided to implement a strict time limit for the 108 ambulance service. Moving forward, ambulances must reach the spot of distress within 15 minutes of receiving an emergency call. Failure to meet this designated timeframe will attract a penalty of Rs 5,000, which will be levied on the service operating agency or the drivers.

Health and Family Welfare Minister U T Khader shared this development, stating that the measure is being introduced to ensure emergency medical services are faster and more people-friendly. While the central government's National Ambulance Services guidelines specify a 20-minute response time after receiving an emergency call, the Karnataka government aims to reduce this duration to 15 minutes.

Focus on the 'Golden Hour'

In medical science, the first hour after an accident or a sudden severe health complication is considered the 'golden hour'. Receiving immediate treatment during this critical period significantly increases a patient's chances of survival. Speeding up the 108 response system is therefore a top priority for the government.

Presently, around 700 to 800 ambulances are operational across the state. The new rules will soon be discussed in the cabinet, following which a comprehensive set of guidelines will be officially released. The updated system is expected to be fully implemented within three months of releasing the guidelines.

Emergency numbers:

• 108 – Emergency medical help and ambulance service

• 102 – Free transport service for pregnant women, mothers, and newborns

This new enforcement is expected to increase the chances of patients receiving timely treatment during critical emergencies and significantly boost the overall efficiency of emergency healthcare services in the state.