Mr Stephen Zsombok ASM1
1Queensland Ambulance Service, Kedron, Australia
This presentation explores the progression of the Queensland Ambulance Service’s (QAS) innovative structural advancements to enhance coordination, virtual care, and equity of access to healthcare in response to heightened demand, aging populations, and chronic diseases. Significant, concurrent natural disasters including multiple cyclones, severe storm activity and prolonged heatwaves tested the organisation’s strategies, structure and capabilities.
Unique geographic challenges in Queensland compound patient access issues during crises, prompting agile organisational strategies within the QAS. Contemporary structural frameworks, including a Chief Operating Officer overseeing critical units like the Clinical Hub and State Operations Coordination Centre, contribute to comprehensive incident management and system support and coordination.
These enhancements enable seamless coordination, empowering swift transitions from routine operations to crisis response within the QAS. Integration with Queensland Health fosters collaboration, ensuring equitable healthcare access during emergencies. This collaboration, along with the involvement of Retrieval Services Queensland, further enhances response capabilities, highlighting the importance of operational cohesion and the comprehensive approach within the QAS’ disaster management arrangements.
The presentation showcases the successes and challenges encountered by the QAS during these events and delves into the organisation’s dynamic response. Through navigating these challenges, the QAS reveals invaluable lessons on resilience, adaptability, and effective disaster management strategies. These insights not only offer compelling narratives but also provide opportunities for further exploration and potential involvement in shaping future models of care in Queensland.
Biography:
As the State Incident Controller, Stephen Zsombok ASM, QAS Chief Operating Officer has led the organisation through numerous disasters. With a rich background in emergency and disaster management, particularly in real-time ambulance operations, Stephen offers insight into the significance and impacts contemporary disaster management innovation has on enhancing models-of-care.