Thanks to the continued support from the National Government, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) St John Ambulance (SJA) Service continues to provide exemplary care in the region, as evident by the recent study results.
The findings of the Council of Ambulance Authorities survey illustrate an exceptional level of satisfaction among service users in PNG, solidifying the ambulance service’s commitment to exceptional care.
The overall satisfaction ratings across PNG increased from 97% in 2022 to 98% in 2023. This boost underscores the unwavering dedication to providing topnotch care and service to the community. PNG had a higher patient satisfaction result than Australian services overall and was equal with the New Zealand St John Ambulance emergency service.
In terms of call responsiveness, a substantial majority of patients felt that the connection to call takers was faster than expected, with 65% reporting a prompt connection in PNG.
And the respondents acknowledged the call takers’ helpfulness and reassurance during their interactions, highlighting the professionalism and empathy of the staff.
The care provided by ambulance workers received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with nearly all respondents in PNG expressing a significantly positive experience. Additionally, a notable level of trust and confidence was reported in the ambulance staff, reflecting the high standard of service and professionalism.
The level of comfort experienced by patients during their ambulance journey and the clarity of communication from the ambulance service staff further underscore the St John Ambulance dedication to delivering exceptional patient care.
Highlights of comments received during the survey:
1. “(St John) responding time was very good. As soon as we were told an ambulance was coming, the ambulance arrived very quickly. Also, the phone operator who was assisting us was very polite and that gave us hope that our patient will be ok.”
2. “We called 111 and they helped us over the phone and said to wait for ambulance, the ambulance arrived and the ambulance officer, a male and a female were fast in checking me, got me to ANGAU…”
3. “The best experience I can say is the response was quick and as soon as the medics arrived, they did their assessment and later we were transported to PMGH. I was happy because I wanted to pay the ambulance but they said the service is free and they are just helping. That really made me happy… I can’t say much but thank you very much for the great service.”
Although permission was sought from the respondents to share these comments, the identities of the respondents have been withheld for privacy.
In response to the survey results Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mangu Kendino said, “I am pleased to see the positive results that demonstrate our commitment to delivering exceptional emergency services overall.”
“Of course, there is still more work to be done. St John must continue working hand-in-hand with the Department of Health and provincial governments to bring such essential services to more parts of the country. Together, we can make a significant impact on healthcare accessibility for all communities in Papua New Guinea.”
Chair of the National St John Council Dame Jean L Kekedo said, “These results beautifully reflect the passion and dedication that our St John men and women bring to providing exceptional care to the people of Papua New Guinea.”