LANCASHIRE'S ambulance service has pledged to reach the most serious emergency cases faster over the next year.

Nationally, ambulance services have been set the target of reaching 75% of all life-threatening calls within eight minutes by 2001.

The Lancashire Ambulance Service NHS Trust has promised in its 1997/98 business plan to meet that target in the next 12 months.

Chief executive David Hill said: "The first eight minutes are absolutely critical in the chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest.

"Early treatment of many life-threatening incidents is the key to future recovery prospects.'' The trust also plans to take on extra control room staff so calls can be answered more quickly. A new mobile radio communications system and a computer-aided dispatch system to help controllers send ambulances to the right locations will be introduced.

Twelve new emergency ambulances equipped with the latest life-saving equipment will be provided and steps will be taken to ensure that a fully-qualified paramedic continues to be available on all emergency ambulances.

The trust also plans to develop training in basic life support and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation for communities across Lancashire.

The non-emergency patient transport service will get 15 new vehicles and patients' views will be sought on how the service can be improved.

Money to be invested in the trust will be raised by expanding trust services into the private sector and NHS trusts outside the North West and management costs will be reduced by 1%.

Mr Hill said: "The trust has set itself a challenging programme, but I am sure it is one which will produce substantial benefits for the public we serve.''

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