Bhubaneswar: Over 24 lakh patients in Odisha have received medical services through the 108-EMAS (Emergency Medical Ambulance Services) ambulances in the state over the past two years, Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling informed the state assembly on Monday.
In a written reply to a question by Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy, Minister Mahaling said that the state has sanctioned a total of 860 108-EMAS ambulances, comprising 411 Advanced Life Support (ALS) and 449 Basic Life Support (BLS) vehicles. These ambulances have been instrumental in providing emergency medical care across urban and rural areas, ensuring timely intervention for patients in critical conditions.
The Minister added that, as per EMAS-108 guidelines, agencies providing these services are required to pay daily wages to employees according to government norms and the applicable minimum wage laws. Drivers, who are considered skilled workers, receive Rs 562 per day; helpers, classified as unskilled workers, earn Rs 462 per day; and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), also skilled workers, are paid Rs 562 per day.
“This initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to strengthening emergency medical services and ensuring that citizens have access to prompt healthcare in critical situations,” Minister Mahaling said.
