Nakhon ratchasima: Life is more important than money! Rescue team Hook 31 adjusts its plan to combat soaring fuel costs, emphasizing, "Never refuse a patient," even though the cost of saving lives has increased. Mr. Pisit Pongsirisupakul, Vice President of the Buddhatham 31 Foundation Nakhon Ratchasima (HUK 31), revealed on the MCOT News FM 100.5 program that the fuel crisis is affecting rescue operations, especially in areas along major roads like Mittraphap Road and Highway 304, where certain types of fuel are beginning to run short.
According to Thai News Agency, the rescue team is urgently planning with gas station operators to prioritize fuel allocation for ambulances to prevent disruptions to emergency patient care. Currently, there are over 200 ambulances under their care, distributed across 26 out of 32 districts in Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Mr. Pisit stated that during the tense situation over the past 2-3 days, there was a shortage of regular-grade fuel in some areas, while premium fuel was still available despite being 13 baht more expensive per liter. He emphasized that premium fuel would be necessary in emergency situations, stressing that "human lives cannot wait," and coordinated with fuel depots to ensure emergency vehicles could immediately queue for refueling. He added that the situation in the area has now begun to ease.
In addition, proactive plans have been implemented using rapid response units (M-line) or rescue motorcycles to conduct initial checks and screening of patients through the emergency medical command center, reducing the unnecessary use of large ambulances. They also coordinate with the police in cases of accidents without injuries, thus conserving resources.
Regarding the overall situation in neighboring provinces such as Buriram, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani, the impact was greater due to their distance from fuel depots, resulting in some areas having to limit refueling per vehicle. However, coordination has been made with the provincial governors and energy agencies to prioritize emergency vehicles.
Mr. Pisit firmly affirmed that despite rising oil prices, it will not be used as a reason to refuse assistance to the public. The life-saving mission will continue 24 hours a day, and he believes this crisis is merely a short-term consequence of mass hysteria.
The emergency medical system in Nakhon Ratchasima handles an average of approximately 100 cases per day, with transfer distances of around 30-50 kilometers per trip, resulting in high fuel consumption. However, the foundation affirms that it will manage the situation to the best of its ability to minimize any impact on public health.