COST-cutting measures by the IW Ambulance Service are putting patients’ lives at risk, it has been claimed.
Ambulance staff have condemned a recent cut in overtime payments, from time-and-a-half to slightly less than the usual hourly rate, which they say has resulted in fewer staff willing to work overtime and a decline in emergency ambulance cover across the Island.
"Shifts are not getting covered and emergency response targets are not being met," said one ambulance worker, who did not wish to be named.
"On a few occasions the service has been reduced to just three ambulances, which is not enough for the whole Island. It’s definitely dangerous as it means people will have to wait for an available ambulance if they dial 999."
NHS IW pointed out the service was one of the best in the country and consistently met national targets for response times.
A spokesman said: "Demand across a 24- hour period fluctuates and the number of ambulances on duty varies according to the demand.
"There needs to be a consistent policy on overtime. This ensures every member of staff works to the same policy and overtime is regulated to ensure that excessive hours are not worked by some individuals.
"Indeed, these changes are enabling the recruitment of additional frontline staff."
Another staff member, who also wished to remain anonymous, claimed IW NHS was more interested in cost cutting than patient safety, and warned emergency demand would only increase over the holiday period.
"It is not uncommon for the service to be close to breaking point. The feeling is management are cutting corners and taking risks with lives of people," said the worker.
Another worker told the County Press: "Staff morale is at an all-time low. We have never felt so undervalued by the NHS."