Mr Tim Conolan Am1
1TLC for Kids, Essendon Fields, Australia
Biography:
Tim Conolan AM is Founder and CEO of TLC for Kids, delivering over 17 million service interactions since 1998. He works closely with ambulance services to embed practical, scalable supports and developed the Tap 2 Distract app, a free digital tool advancing behavioural stabilisation in pre-hospital care globally.
Abstract:
Background
Ambulance services increasingly manage high-anxiety presentations, including procedural distress and needle phobia, where behavioural escalation can prolong scene time, increase clinical complexity and strain workforce capacity. There is growing need for scalable, non-pharmacological tools that support emotional regulation within pre-hospital care. This project aimed to embed a free, digital stabilisation tool into ambulance and broader healthcare environments to reduce acute distress before escalation.
Method
TLC for Kids developed Tap 2 Distract, a deliberately simple, ad-free application designed to support rapid emotional regulation through short, interactive and breathing-based activities. The tool was co-designed with healthcare input, requires no login, no data capture and minimal explanation, and can be deployed instantly on any device. Suitable for all ages, from children to older adults, the app supports diverse ambulance presentations. Partnerships enabled frontline use in real-world, high-pressure scenarios without additional training burden.
Results
Since launch, the app has been used in more than 70 countries, delivering over 1.1 million minutes of positive distraction. Informal clinician feedback indicates improved cooperation during procedures, reduced observable escalation and smoother clinical workflow, supporting operational efficiency in time-critical environments. As a free digital resource, the tool can be shared directly with patients and families, extending support beyond the immediate episode of care.
Conclusion
Digitally enabled behavioural stabilisation represents an emerging layer of ambulance care. Low-cost, scalable tools can augment clinical practice, reduce escalation risk and strengthen system resilience, contributing to a future model of ambulance services that integrates emotional regulation alongside physical treatment.