Liberato Hoek, Head of the Aruba Ambulance Service at ImSan, recently made an urgent call to the community to show respect for ambulance personnel so they can carry out their work safely and professionally.
In an interview with DIARIO, Hoek emphasized that emergency responders should not be subjected to insults, aggression, or disrespect. “We are here to provide service when it’s needed the most, but we also need space to do our jobs in a professional manner,” Hoek stated.
He explained that ambulance personnel often face challenges, particularly when dealing with individuals under the influence of alcohol. “In these situations, they don’t give us the space to do our work, or they start insulting or even attacking us. It’s especially challenging when the individuals are family members or close to the patient,” Hoek said. He reiterated his request for the community to respect ambulance personnel so that they can continue to provide the necessary medical care in a professional and safe environment.
Hoek concluded by saying that if such situations continue, ambulance staff may need to involve the police to ensure their safety and the safety of the patients they serve.
