A Personal Connection Fuels a Project for Positive Change

For many years, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the Austrian Red Cross' Emergency Button Service. As a paramedic working near my home in Lower Austria, I saw how this innovative service provided older people living alone with the security of knowing help was just a button press away.

Sharing the Gift of Security with North Macedonia

In 2019, the Red Cross North Macedonia expressed their interest in replicating this successful programme. They shared that such a service was entirely new to their country, leaving many vulnerable individuals without a safety net. Unlike Austria, emergency services were only activated for life-threatening situations, leaving those needing non-critical assistance on their own.

This realization sparked a collaborative effort. Following a feasibility study, I was appointed project manager and technical advisor for an initiative to introduce the Emergency Button Service in Skopje.

Building a System from the Ground Up

Implementing these services in Skopje presented unique challenges. Unlike Austria's established infrastructure, a 24/7 dispatch centre and reliable response system were absent. Through two years of dedicated work, we not only launched a pilot programme with 110 clients, but we also established a patient transport service to provide help to Emergency Button users and additionally for people who need to be transported to regular health check-ups in hospitals.

A Flourishing Programme with Lasting Impact

The pilot phase proved tremendously successful. Adjustments were made to the dispatch software, and additional vehicles were acquired. Now, the Red Cross North Macedonia provides a state-of-the-art service that has handled over 1,000 calls, responded to 27 emergency calls, and facilitated 716 safe transports in 2023 alone! The service continues to grow, exceeding last year's numbers in the first half of 2024.

Building Sustainable Solutions with the Austrian Red Cross REDpreneur programme

This project was further strengthened by the project team’s participation in the REDpreneur programme. This initiative provided the tools and resources needed to develop sustainable business models for the Emergency Button and patient transport services.

Sustainability and Growth to a Bright Future

Although my project ends in August 2024, the Emergency Button and patient transport services will remain. They are designed for long-term viability, offered as a fee-based service with accessible options. Municipalities are actively partnering with the Red Cross, ensuring affordability for those in need. Currently, three municipalities cover the cost of the Emergency Button service for their residents, while five support the transport service. The positive impact is undeniable, and plans are already underway to expand these vital services beyond Skopje's city limits.

Conclusion

This project has been a deeply rewarding experience. Witnessing the Emergency Button and patient transport service flourish in North Macedonia, offering peace of mind and timely assistance to those who need it most, has been truly inspiring. It speaks volumes about the power of collaboration and the lasting impact this initiative has had.

Article by Christian Diemt, AutRC International Cooperation