The National St John Ambulance Service, accompanied by the National Department of Health Emergency Medicine Physicians, officially launched its Ambulance Clinical Practice Protocols as a smartphone app today. Marking a significant step forward in supporting high-quality prehospital care across Papua New Guinea, the development of this app was made possible by the generous donations raised by the staff of Deloitte Australia and its staff here in PNG during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Commissioner Matt Cannon OStJ, Chief Executive of the National St John Ambulance Council, shared that in the past, the ambulance field guide and clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) had to be printed, which was both expensive and difficult to keep up to date. Every time changes were made, new protocols had to be reprinted. Therefore, with the new Ambulance Field Guide and CPG App, this now makes it possible to have up-to-date protocols directly in the hands of ambulance staff. The App, which is called, ‘St John Ambulance PNG CPG’, operates on any modern android smartphone, providing a clear, medically approved instructions for managing a wide range of emergency conditions and simplifying the delivery of care. All guidelines are pre-approved by a panel of specialist emergency physicians, ensuring high standards of clinical safety and effectiveness. For doctors and paramedics, the new app includes an advanced medical care section, offering more detailed guidelines for advanced medical procedures. “We had to learn to modernize ourselves like other ambulance services in the region by moving to a platform that is sensible, practical and takes advantage of the technology that’s out there so we can deliver good quality care whether it be a first responder, ambulance officer delivering basic life support or a doctor or critical care doctor providing critical care and life support.” “Making the technology available for the health responders to have easy access and with that can now put in the palm of our hands the instructions that they need in their time of greatest need." Cannon also extended his heartfelt thanks to Deloitte PNG for their invaluable support and stated that the generous contributions from Deloitte’s staff and partners have been instrumental in the successful launch of this app. The project according to Cannon began years ago. He added that although the vision was there, the financial aid was not there to implement that vision. However, money was raised over the years with the great help from Deloitte making it possible to see a successful launch of the app today. Moreover, Cannon stated a disclaimer, meaning that health workers and professionals can use at their own risks. Meanwhile, Office Managing Partner for Deloitte PNG, Mr. Herbert Maguma expressed gratitude to the National St John Ambulance for their significant contribution to building safer and healthier communities. “This occasion marks a significant milestone in the journey towards improving health care delivery in PNG and Deloitte PNG is proud to have played a part in this important initiative.” “During the critical time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Deloitte recognized the vital role that SJA plays as one of our frontline health care providers.” “This application represents more than just a technological advancement. It is a tool that empowers St John frontline ambulance with up-to-date information right at their fingerprints.” This app ensures that healthcare professionals, no matter where they are in the country with the support they need to deliver high timely care. “We are proud that the support from our Deloitte team has helped make this app possible, enabling the ambulance service to deliver high-quality emergency care, free for all Papua New Guineans.” While the app is principally for use by trained national ambulance staff and PHA Ambulance reservists, it is also available for free on the Google Play Store in Papua New Guinea. This means registered health professionals can access it as a valuable point of reference, subject to their own organisation’s clinical governance. It is also expected to be available on the Apple App Store in the coming weeks. “Deloitte’s partnership with SJA is grounded in our shared commitment to improving health outcomes for all Papua New Guineans. I also want to recognize the tireless efforts of the SJA team. Your dedication in saving lives often in the most difficult circumstances is truly inspiring.” Also present during the launching was Health Minister, Elias Kapavore who said that the launch of the Clinical Practice Guideline smartphone app marks a significant Step in the digitisation of healthcare. “I commend the National St John Ambulance for spearheading this important Innovation. The Government and the Health Department stand ready to support any future initiatives you pursue in advancing healthcare."