If you are going to have an accident, wait until June 1st when the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM) is to boost staff numbers in preparation for summer’s influx of tourists.There anyway are 38 teams in the region but to these will be added an Emergency Medical and Resuscitation Vehicle (VMER) in Tavira; two Medical Emergency Motorcycles in Portimão and Albufeira; nine INEM ambulances at the Portuguese Red Cross in Armação de Pera, Lagos, Almancil, Albufeira, Altura (Castro Marim), Portimão, Boliqueime and Ferreiras, and two INEM ambulances at the Bombeiros in Albufeira and Portimão.
"The decision to strengthen the emergency equipment and personnel available to the population in the Algarve region is based on a detailed analysis of the incidents in the region," according to a dry statement issued by the Regional Health Administration.
In addition to this significant increase in the number of emergency service teams and kit, the INEM will increase staffing at the Emergency Care Centre in Faro by providing 24/7 medical assistance.
At the same time, the INEM will deliver two Defibrillators to the Tavira and Olhão Bombeiros for use on the Ria Formosa islands of Tavira and Armona in case of heart attacks.
The Algarve region’s firefighting teams already have one defibrillator each, courtesy of a fundraising drive initiated by afpop which raised funds for 17 units in Operation Shock.
Also for the Ria Formosa islands, there is the Ria Solidária medical evacuation vessel, now funded under a protocol between the INEM, the National Maritime Authority and the Municipalities of Faro and Olhão.
"Whoever chooses the Algarve in which to spend their holidays is guaranteed that the emergency medical service in the region is robust and capable of meeting the needs," says the Regional Health Administration, now adding a bit of effort to its statement.
The boost in emergency cover starts on June 1st and ends on September 30th.
The INEM said it is appreciative of the capacity shown by fire brigades and Portuguese Red Cross to work closely with its teams to "provide an effective response" to medical care and help, "guarantee greater security to all who choose the Algarve for their vacations."
