Associate Professor Sonja Maria is a leading researcher in paramedicine at Charles Sturt University, focusing on clinical practice guidelines, education, and evidence-based healthcare. With extensive experience in paramedic training, her work aims to improve patient outcomes and enhance professional standards across the Australasian paramedicine sector.
The Need to Improve the Development of Paramedicine Clinical Practice Guidelines in Australia and Aotearoa, New Zealand: A Reflection and Call to Action
A/Prof. Sonja Maria1
1Australasian College of Paramedicine, Chair – Clinical Practice Guidelines Working Group, Australia
Abstract
Background
The development of high-quality, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) is essential for effective and safe paramedic care. Despite efforts to professionalise paramedicine, current CPG development processes in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand face challenges in consistency and transparency, limiting their effectiveness and alignment with international standards.
Method
This presentation explores the challenges in CPG development, drawing on existing literature and findings from the Australasian College of Paramedicine’s working group. It proposes key actions, including adopting structured project management frameworks, enhancing evidence evaluation skills, and prioritising CPG development within ambulance services.
Results
The findings highlight opportunities for improving the consistency and transparency of paramedic CPGs. While current practices show room for improvement in meeting NHMRC accreditation standards, there is strong potential to enhance development processes through better training, collaboration, and standardisation. The recommendations aim to foster a more cohesive and evidence-based approach across services.
Conclusion
Improving the development of paramedicine CPGs is essential to enhancing patient care and ensuring paramedics have reliable, evidence-based guidelines. Stakeholders, including ambulance services, policymakers, and academic institutions, must collaborate to adopt structured frameworks and invest in research, ensuring CPGs are aligned with best practices and international standards.