With only half of Ireland’s defibrillators currently listed on public databases, MEP Nina Carberry, has this week called on the European Commission to examine an EU-wide approach to defibrillator registration and data-sharing as part of the EU cardiovascular health strategy.
MEP Carberry has pointed to the ‘Donegal Defibrillator’ project as a model to follow, which compiles the location of defibrillators in the county online.
Recent figures from Community First Responders (CFR) Ireland show that there are 16 active hubs registered in Donegal’s emergency defibrillator network.
Speaking from the Parliament in Brussels this week, where she raised the issue, MEP Carberry said:
“Too many defibrillators are effectively hidden in plain sight. Of the more than 9,000 devices across the country, nearly half are not registered.
“In an emergency, this lack of visibility can cost time that is critical for survival. Around 90 per cent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are fatal without quick intervention. If a defibrillator cannot be found quickly and easily, the chances of saving a life drop dramatically.
“And this is not just a problem in Ireland. A recent study found that only 8 of 19 European countries surveyed had a nationwide defibrillator mapping system in place. That also means if you’re on holiday anywhere in Europe and someone needs CPR, it can be difficult to quickly locate the nearest defibrillator.
“The starting point must be a full, accurate EU-wide database. After that, the focus must be on making that information easily available in real time, including through digital maps and phone apps, so people can find the nearest device immediately.
“In the meantime, it is important that if you have a defibrillator at your local sports club, school, or public park, it is registered with the HSE and CFR so it can be quickly located in an emergency,” she added.
MEP Carberry said the issue should now be addressed at EU level through the cardiovascular strategy, with the possibility to be supported through EU health and LEADER funding.
“We already have EU legislation to enable health data-sharing across borders. We should show the same ambition when it comes to defibrillators,” she concluded.