GoodSAM heart attack app launches in Victoria

AN app that alerts off-duty paramedics to rush to the aid of heart attack victims nearby in the minutes before an ambulance arrives is expected to reduce preventable deaths across Victoria.

AN emergency app designed to alert off-duty paramedics about people suffering a cardiac arrest nearby before an ambulance arrives on the scene is being launched in Victoria to reduce preventable deaths.

Ambulance Victoria’s GoodSAM app rolls out across the state today.

It comes after a trial involving 1500 off-duty paramedics delivered a reduction in first response times.

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Medical practitioners and other trained Victorians are being urged to sign up to the program.

The app alerts the three closest responders while an ambulance crew is dispatched.

Premier Daniel Andrews said he was proud to launch the new technology that’s expected to save lives.

“This is the simplest thing but it is a really important and powerful way to save lives,” he said.

“These investments, this innovative approach is exactly the right thing to do.”

Health Minister Jill Hennessy said: “We are giving our paramedics and other first responders the tools and resources they need to save more lives.”