Volunteer paramedics have aired concerns about a plan to increase Deloraine Ambulance Station staff numbers at a public meeting on Wednesday, calling for resources to be directed "where they need to be".
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The station's volunteer coordinator Jamie Davis says though the move may be aimed at countering fatigue, it will only increase the time spent out of region - which spans from Mole Creek to Miena.
With full-time staff at Deloraine working 12-hour shifts, followed by an equal on-call period, the changes flagged by the government would bring in new paramedics to cover the latter portion and turn the station into a "double branch".
The working paramedic is supported by one of the station's 27 volunteers - which would then also be required to work around the clock.
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"What will actually happen is that ambulances will be used overnight in Launceston," Mr Davis said. "It's bad enough now during the day,"
Volunteer paramedic Nicole Rubenach said extra paramedics are certainly required, "but we want them where they need to be."
"Why are they trying to fix a station that isn't broken?" she said. "It's going to be detrimental."
Though Health Minister Sarah Courtney says more paramedics will mean more capacity to respond to emergencies within the community, while also allowing an increase in the ability to provide training and support.
"We will continue to work closely with the Deloraine paramedics, volunteers and the community to ensure that we are listening and delivering the service that is right for them," Ms Courtney said.
Tasmanian Labor leader Rebecca White described the sentiment at the meeting as a "clear demonstration" the plan lacked public support.
"These volunteers are rightfully concerned about their community having no coverage if they continue to be sent to respond to jobs in Launceston or Devonport," she said.
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