Latest news with #AEDs
Arab Times
a day ago
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait advances healthcare with global expertise and cutting-edge technology
KUWAIT CITY, July 24: Kuwait is pressing ahead with a wide-ranging transformation of its healthcare sector, with a focus on adopting global medical expertise, enhancing emergency response systems, and expanding digital and preventive care services, according to Ministry of Health Spokesperson Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad. Speaking at a press conference hosted by the Government Communication Center, Dr. Al-Sanad outlined the ministry's efforts to elevate Kuwait's healthcare standards through a multi-faceted approach that includes specialized infrastructure, international collaboration, and a strong push for digitalization. At the core of this strategy is the establishment of specialized medical zones across Kuwait. Among the most significant projects is the new Al-Adan Hospital, comprising nine interconnected buildings aimed at delivering comprehensive services to citizens in the surrounding area. Similar integrated health zones have been established in Al-Ahmadi and Al-Sabah, designed to provide secondary and specialized care within easy geographic reach. New facilities such as the Mutlaa Emergency Center, Infectious Diseases Hospital, and Kuwait Cancer Control Center are also being launched, while the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department has been relocated from Al-Adan Hospital to the Maternity and Childhood Hospital, improving focus and care delivery. Among the notable advancements is the First Responder Project, introduced earlier this month. The initiative features 28 mobile medical units dedicated to delivering rapid response care in emergencies. In its inaugural week, the units responded to 70 cases, demonstrating their potential to strengthen Kuwait's emergency care framework. In a similar vein, the ministry has installed 20 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at Kuwait International Airport to improve outcomes for cardiac arrest victims. To ensure proper use, specialized training has been launched for airport staff in cooperation with relevant authorities. To strengthen domestic medical capacity, the ministry has hosted 140 visiting doctors from around the world, offering advanced treatments and knowledge exchange with Kuwaiti healthcare providers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate international standards into Kuwait's medical system while training national cadres. In diagnostic services, a newly inaugurated MRI wing at Al-Razi Hospital has doubled both imaging equipment and patient throughput. Simultaneously, a new border medical center in Nuwaiseeb, along with 13 health centers across all Kuwaiti border crossings, have been launched to ensure accessible care for travelers and residents at key entry points. Kuwaiti emergency departments recorded 200,000 cases in January alone, reflecting the scale of services provided nationwide. Across the country, there are 117 primary healthcare centers, 30% of which operate 24/7. Additional facilities include 38 maternity clinics, 72 mental health clinics, 35 preventive health centers, 20 ophthalmology clinics, and 18 ENT clinics. In the first half of 2025, 86,860 emergency cases were handled, with 72,236 patients transported via ambulance. These included over 50,000 urgent and nearly 22,000 non-urgent cases, along with 5,068 traffic accident responses, 420 airlifts, and 35 medical evacuations. Dr. Al-Sanad noted a decline in road accidents following the implementation of the new traffic law in May, with 357 fewer reports over two months. The ministry is also accelerating its digital transformation. Through the 'Sahel' application, 23 health services have been made available, with 338,844 users benefiting during the first half of the year. Since October 2023, 3.9 million electronic patient visits have been recorded. This transition has eased pressure on health centers, reducing visits from 15.5 million in 2022 to 13.2 million in 2024. Preventive health services are expanding as well. Early breast cancer screening saw 4,275 applicants in the first half of 2025, up from 1,114 in 2023 and 8,141 in 2024, for a total of 13,530 screenings to date. Meanwhile, 872 bedridden patients have received care through the ministry's home visit program, with plans underway to launch similar services tailored to children. In conclusion, Dr. Al-Sanad emphasized the ministry's ongoing commitment to comprehensive and forward-looking healthcare reform. Through strategic partnerships, smart infrastructure, and digital innovation, Kuwait is steadily building a more responsive and inclusive national health system.
Otago Daily Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Southern Discoveries puts safety first
Survival Co owner Peter Gillman (second from left, crouching) demonstrates Southern Discoveries' new emergency survival equipment to its coach drivers and other staff during a training exercise in Wilson Bay yesterday. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Queenstown-based operator Southern Discoveries has installed emergency survival equipment in its fleet of coaches and other vehicles to ensure they're prepared for "any eventuality". CEO Kerry Walker says each of the companies' five coaches has been equipped with long-life food, bottled water, purification tablets, emergency shelter, headlamps, ponchos, survival blankets, personal hygiene items, self-rescue backpacks and stretchers. The coaches also have AEDs (automatic external defibrillators) and satellite communication devices with SOS and two-way texting functions. The four-person survival backpacks will enable a driver or passengers from a stranded coach to evacuate themselves, Walker says. The survival packs have also been put into nine other company vehicles, while 'grab and go' packs have been placed in staff housing in Milford Sound. The $50,000 package of equipment has been specifically prepared for major earthquake events such as the Alpine Fault magnitude 8 (AF8) scenario. Walker says it's the first tourism company operating in Milford Sound, and on the Queenstown-Milford bus route, to have this level of equipment in its coaches and support vehicles. With up to 250 people in the coaches at a time, doing everything they can to ensure their customers' safety in a major seismic event is an "essential step". Last Saturday night's magnitude 4.2 jolt was a "timely reminder that this sort of thing should never be far from our minds", she says. "We operate in a region with significant seismic risks, so it's our responsibility to be prepared for any eventuality." The company's investment in the gear is in line with a renewed focus on disaster preparedness by Milford Sound Tourism, Southland District Council and other tourism operators in the region, she says.
Otago Daily Times
18-07-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Southern Discos puts safety first
Survival Co owner Peter Gillman (second from left, crouching) demonstrates Southern Discoveries' new emergency survival equipment to its coach drivers and other staff during a training exercise in Wilson Bay yesterday. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Queenstown-based operator Southern Discoveries has installed emergency survival equipment in its fleet of coaches and other vehicles to ensure they're prepared for "any eventuality". CEO Kerry Walker says each of the companies' five coaches has been equipped with long-life food, bottled water, purification tablets, emergency shelter, headlamps, ponchos, survival blankets, personal hygiene items, self-rescue backpacks and stretchers. The coaches also have AEDs (automatic external defibrillators) and satellite communication devices with SOS and two-way texting functions. The four-person survival backpacks will enable a driver or passengers from a stranded coach to evacuate themselves, Walker says. The survival packs have also been put into nine other company vehicles, while 'grab and go' packs have been placed in staff housing in Milford Sound. The $50,000 package of equipment has been specifically prepared for major earthquake events such as the Alpine Fault magnitude 8 (AF8) scenario. Walker says it's the first tourism company operating in Milford Sound, and on the Queenstown-Milford bus route, to have this level of equipment in its coaches and support vehicles. With up to 250 people in the coaches at a time, doing everything they can to ensure their customers' safety in a major seismic event is an "essential step". Last Saturday night's magnitude 4.2 jolt was a "timely reminder that this sort of thing should never be far from our minds", she says. "We operate in a region with significant seismic risks, so it's our responsibility to be prepared for any eventuality." The company's investment in the gear is in line with a renewed focus on disaster preparedness by Milford Sound Tourism, Southland District Council and other tourism operators in the region, she says.
The Star
15-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
A better travel experience at KLIA
SEPANG: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 has undergone a RM30mil upgrade in the first half of the year, unveiling 14 new initiatives designed to offer passengers a smarter, faster and more welcoming travel experience. These enhancements come at a strategic time, as Malaysia prepares to host the 47th Asean Summit in October and intensifies efforts for Visit Malaysia 2026. Abd Hasman Abd Muhimim, general manager of operations for KLIA Terminal 1, said the upgrades reflect Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd's (MAHB) ongoing commitment to position KLIA as a world-class, efficient and inclusive international hub. 'As of the first half of 2025, KLIA has recorded 30.1 million passengers, marking a 9.9% increase compared to the same period last year. 'Our aim is to reduce queuing times and improve operational efficiency at every touchpoint. We continuously assess current needs and will expand facilities wherever necessary to ensure KLIA delivers the best possible service,' he told reporters at KLIA yesterday. Health patrol: Paramedics making their rounds at KLIA Terminal 1. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star Among the key enhancements is the deployment of paramedics on e-scooters for emergency response. The scooters, stationed at key areas in the main and satellite terminals, are equipped with oxygen tanks, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). 'Well-trained paramedics can now arrive at the scene within three minutes to handle a range of emergencies, from cardiac arrests to minor injuries. This significantly reduces response times and improves overall passenger safety,' said Abd Hasman. Additionally, 36 family-friendly parking bays have been introduced, converted from 54 standard bays and located on various levels of the short-term car park. Abd Hasman explained that this move came in response to the increasing number of families travelling through KLIA, prompting the airport to provide more tailored and convenient facilities. To support mobility and accessibility, MAHB is also rolling out 100 new wheelchairs, with 50 already available free of charge at key locations throughout the terminal, including the main terminal building and satellite concourses. Abd Hasman said 80 washrooms have been upgraded with wider entrances, sensor taps, grab bars and floor-level emergency call buttons. Passenger convenience has been further enhanced by replacing 5,000 outdated baggage trolleys with lighter, more stable models featuring strap-free handles and built-in brakes. Passenger processing has seen significant upgrades as well. A mobile bag-drop system has been introduced on a trial basis, enabling the processing of 10 times more luggage than traditional counters. At the domestic security checkpoint, enhanced tray lanes and unpack/repack zones have doubled screening capacity to 1,500 passengers per hour, reducing wait times to under five minutes. Self-service capabilities have also been expanded, with nine automated boarding pass scanners now operational at international airside entry points – up from just six manual lanes previously – offering faster, more contactless processing. To facilitate smoother departures for passengers requiring assistance, two additional immigration priority counters have been added. These serve families with young children, the elderly, expectant mothers and passengers with reduced mobility. Clearer signage has been introduced to ensure these counters are easily located. Beyond functional improvements, the upgrades also enhance the overall ambience of the terminal. New heritage-themed wall installations celebrate Malaysian culture and identity, creating visually engaging public spaces. Wayfinding at Aerotrain stations has been improved to help passengers navigate easily, while the Kids Zone at Gate C30 has been revitalised with an orangutan-themed playground to provide an interactive and fun space for children.
Straits Times
14-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Malaysia's KLIA terminal gets $9m makeover for better, faster travel experience
Find out what's new on ST website and app. These enhancements come as Malaysia prepares to host the 47th Asean Summit in October. SEPANG, Selangor - Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 has undergone a RM30 million (S$9 million) upgrade in the first half of the year, unveiling 14 new initiatives designed to offer passengers a smarter, faster and more welcoming travel experience. These enhancements come at a strategic time, as Malaysia prepares to host the 47th Asean Summit in October and intensifies efforts for Visit Malaysia 2026. General Manager of Operations for KLIA Terminal 1 Abd Hasman Abd Muhimim said the upgrades reflect Malaysia Airports Holdings' (MAHB) ongoing commitment to positioning KLIA as a world-class, efficient and inclusive international hub. 'As of the first half of 2025, KLIA has recorded 30.1 million passengers, marking a 9.9 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. 'Our aim is to reduce queuing times and improve operational efficiency at every touchpoint. We continuously assess current needs and will expand facilities wherever necessary to ensure KLIA delivers the best possible service,' he told reporters at KLIA on July 14. Among the key enhancements is the deployment of paramedics on e-scooters to enhance emergency response at the terminal. The scooters, stationed at key areas in the main and satellite terminals, are equipped with oxygen tanks, trauma kits and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore HSA intensifies crackdown on vapes; young suspected Kpod peddlers nabbed in Bishan, Yishun Singapore Man charged over distributing nearly 3 tonnes of vapes in one day in Bishan, Ubi Avenue 3 Singapore Singapore boosts support for Timor-Leste as it prepares to join Asean Singapore Singapore to train more aviation and maritime officials from around the world Business Singapore's economy sees surprise expansion in Q2 despite US tariff uncertainty: Advance estimate Singapore High Court dismisses appeal of drink driver who killed one after treating Tampines road like racetrack Singapore 18 years' jail for woman who hacked adoptive father to death after tussle over Sengkang flat Singapore Jail, caning for man who had 285 child porn videos, including those that show infants 'Well-trained paramedics can now arrive at the scene within three minutes to handle a range of emergencies, from cardiac arrests to minor injuries. This significantly reduces response times and improves overall passenger safety,' he said. Additionally, 36 family-friendly parking bays have been introduced, converted from 54 standard bays and located across various levels of the short-term car park. Mr Abd Hasman explained that this move came in response to the increasing number of families travelling through KLIA, prompting the airport to provide more tailored and convenient facilities. To support mobility and accessibility, MAHB is also rolling out 100 new wheelchairs, with 50 already available free of charge at key locations throughout the terminal, including the main terminal building and satellite concourses. Accessibility and inclusion, Mr Abd Hasman noted, remain at the heart of the airport's improvement strategy. A total of 80 washrooms have been upgraded into fully integrated accessible facilities, complete with wider entrances, sensor taps, grab bars and emergency call buttons positioned at floor level - upgrades that reinforce KLIA's reputation as a family- and disability-friendly airport. Passenger convenience has been further improved through the replacement of 5,000 outdated baggage trolleys with lighter, more stable models featuring strap-free handles and built-in brakes. Passenger processing has seen significant upgrades as well. A mobile bag-drop system has been introduced on a trial basis, enabling the processing of 10 times more luggage than traditional counters. At the domestic security checkpoint, enhanced tray lanes and unpack/repack zones have doubled screening capacity to 1,500 passengers per hour, reducing wait times to under five minutes. Self-service capabilities have also been expanded, with nine automated boarding pass scanners now operational at international airside entry points - up from just six manual lanes previously - offering faster, more contactless processing. To facilitate smoother departures for passengers requiring assistance, two additional immigration priority counters have been added. These serve families with young children, the elderly, expectant mothers and passengers with reduced mobility. Clearer signage has been introduced to ensure these counters are easily located. Beyond functional improvements, the upgrades also enhance the overall ambience of the terminal. New heritage-themed wall installations celebrate Malaysian culture and identity, creating visually engaging public spaces. Wayfinding at Aerotrain stations has been improved to help passengers navigate more easily, while the Kids Zone at Gate C30 has been revitalised with an orangutan-themed playground to provide an interactive and fun space for children. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
