What is GOODSAM?
Everyday Aussies, like you and I can be the link to survival.
Last August, I became aware of the program, and signed up right away.
This means, I might get a message at any point in time, to an emergency close to me, where I can provide CPR, AED and major bleed control if the ambulance is not able to get there in time.
If you are inerested in helping those around you in medical emergencies, keep reading!
GOODSAM is a volunteer program where members of your community can be dispatched to attend cardiac arrests to perform CPR while the ambulance is on the way.
GOODSAM, a free smartphone app, connects trained responders with people in need of urgent medical assistance.
This blog post explains GOODSAM Australia, and how you can become the reason someones life is saved.
What is GOODSAM Australia?
GOODSAM is an Australia wide platform that alerts registered first responders to nearby medical emergencies via an alarmed app.
It's integrated with emergency dispatch systems, meaning that when someone calls Triple Zero (000), the system can simultaneously notify nearby GOODSAM responders if the are needed.
This allows trained first aiders in your community to provide immediate assistance, before paramedics arrive.
It's vital to understand that GOODSAM responders support, not replace, professional emergency medical services.
Want to know how GOODSAM Works?
- Emergency Call: When someone dials Triple Zero (000) the dispatch center records the location.
- Responder Alert: The GOODSAM system uses the caller's location to identify registered responders in the immediate area. Responders receive an alert on their smartphone via the GOODSAM app.
- Responder Acceptance: Responders can choose to accept the alert. The app provides directions to the emergency.
- On-Scene Assistance: Responders can provide immediate aid, such as CPR, bleed control, and reassurance to the patient and their family.
- Paramedic Arrival: When paramedics arrive, they take over care of the patient.
Who Can Become a GOODSAM Responder?
GOODSAM is open to people with specific qualifications and training. In Australia, this typically includes:
- Allied Health Professionals: Doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other professionals.
- First Aid Certified Individuals: Those who have completed a recognised first aid or CPR course.
- Other Trained Responders: This may include firefighters, police officers, and surf lifesavers.
What Kind of Help Can GOODSAM Responders Provide?
GOODSAM responders can provide a range of assistance, including:
- CPR: Providing immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation is crucial in cardiac arrest situations.
- Major Bleed: Controlling life threatening bleeding.
- First Aid: Providing first aid for injuries, fractures or other medical issues.
- Reassurance: Offering comfort and support to the patient and their family.
- Handover information: Providing details about the situation to paramedics upon arrival.
The Ripple Effect of GOODSAM:
Beyond the immediate medical assistance, GOODSAM has a broader impact on your community.
GOODSAM encourages a culture of preparedness and fosters individuals to learn life-saving skills.
- Strengthening Communities: GOODSAM empowers individuals confidence to take action and become active participants in their community's safety. It transforms bystanders into potential lifesavers.
- Resilience: By connecting trained responders, GOODSAM builds community resilience and improves the chances of survival in medical emergencies.
- First Aid Awareness: The program highlights the importance of first aid and CPR training, motivating more people to acquire these essential skills.
- Creating a Network of Care: GOODSAM creates a network of care, connecting individuals who are willing and able to help with those in need. This sense of community support can be invaluable during a crisis.
- Psychological First Aid: Even if a responder doesn't have advanced medical skills, their presence and reassurance can provide crucial psychological first aid to the patient and their loved ones. Simply being there, offering a calm voice and a helping hand, can make a significant difference.
How to Register as a GOODSAM Responder:
- Download the App: Download the free GOODSAM app from your smartphone's app store.
- Create an Account: Follow the in-app instructions to create an account.
- Verify Your Credentials: You'll need to provide proof of your qualifications or training.
- Activate Your Responder Status: Once your credentials are verified, you can activate your responder status.
Important Considerations:
- Responder Safety: Your safety always comes first. Assess the scene for danger before approaching and never put yourself at risk.
- Legal Considerations: In Australia, "Good Samaritan" laws offer some legal protection to individuals who provide assistance in good faith at the scene of an emergency.
- Maintain Your Skills: Regularly refresh your first aid and CPR skills to ensure you're prepared to respond effectively.
External Australian References (Google EAT):
- GOODSAM Australia: https://www.goodsamapp.org/au - The official website for GOODSAM Australia.
- Emergency Management Australia: https://www.ema.gov.au/ - Provides information and resources on emergency preparedness.
- Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC): https://www.resus.org.au/ - Sets the guidelines for resuscitation practices in Australia.
Conclusion:
GOODSAM Australia is a powerful tool that empowers ordinary people to make a difference in their communities. By registering as a responder, you can become a vital link in the chain of survival, providing immediate assistance to those in need. While professional medical services are essential, the quick response and support offered by GOODSAM responders can significantly improve outcomes in medical emergencies. Consider joining GOODSAM today and becoming a part of this growing network of lifesavers.
