Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire Air Ambulance grounded over 'administrative issue'
Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance (LNAA) has been grounded after an “administrative oversight” over renewing their controlled drugs licence.
LNAA are currently unable to store or supply controlled drugs after failing to meet the licence deadline. East Midlands Ambulance Service ( EMAS ) decided to stand down air ambulances temporarily from Friday due to “a higher risk to patient safety”.
John Wright, East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust Strategic Commander, said: “We are supporting LNAA however we can, including working with them to explore safe alternative deployment and support options, and expediated renewal of their controlled drugs licence.
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“We have a number of enhanced care resources available at EMAS including our specialist practitioners, EMICS volunteer doctors, and other air ambulance partners. Patient safety is our highest priority at EMAS. Patients calling 999 for life-threatening emergency help will continue to be triaged and ambulance service resources dispatched appropriately, as normal.”
EMAS said they took national clinical advice and best practice into account when halting LNAA resources. Air ambulances are dispatched for the most serious incidents across Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire and carry out life-saving procedures.
Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance said on Facebook: "We are in discussion with EMAS at the highest level to find a resolution as soon as possible. We are working closely with the Home Office on the controlled drugs licence.
"We are grateful to all of our valued supporters who are by our side at this time. We will keep you updated."