ECA Role

After the implementation of the Band 3 ECA role within Yorkshire Ambulance Service, it is UNISON’s stance that it should be band 3 work for band 3 pay.

After discussions at the JSG with the trust yesterday, with regards the ECA scope of practice, UNISON argued that the document given to members contradicted itself. Suggesting on one hand ECAs could not attend in the back of a vehicle while ever there was a senior clinician present, yet they were happy for two ECAs working together to transport a patient that potentially had only been triaged over the phone.

UNISON’s view is that two ECAs should not respond to any category of call together, however if working with a lead clinician they could attend when the condition of the patient falls within their skill set.

This stance would allow protected band 4 members who wish to undertake paramedic training, in line with the trust work force plan, to maintain their current skill levels and develop their personal CPD Portfolio in line with trust requirements.

Taking UNISON’s standpoint on the ECA role would clear up the confusion currently surrounding the role, and answer the questions asked by all levels of staff, giving the lead clinician autonomy, after discussion with the ECA, to make the final decision. This would also give a clear steer to Dispatchers in the EOC when deciding on skill sets for job allocation.

Although we fully understand the anxieties’ of our members currently surrounding this issue, discussions with the trust are on-going and members will be kept up to date with further developments.

On a positive note, expressions of interest will be sought in the coming weeks from interested AP and Band 4 members wishing to progress to paramedic level, with a view to courses starting in Jan/Feb 2014.