The Auxiliary Medical Service (AMS) is a government-financed volunteer organisation established under the Auxiliary Medical Service Ordinance. Its main role is to augment the regular medical, health and ambulance services during emergencies and to supplement such services in non-emergency situations. The AMS has an establishment of 4 418 volunteer members coming from all walks of life including medical practitioners, nurses and paramedical personnel. The Director of Health is the Commissioner of the AMS, and is responsible to the Chief Executive for the efficient operation of the organisation. Some 100 civil servants provide administrative and training support.

    Following the reorganisation of the volunteer structure of the AMS in September 2001 and the integration of medical practitioners and nurses into the operational teams of districts, the operational efficiency and quality of service provided to the general public has been greatly enhanced.

    During the year, a new uniform was introduced for AMS volunteer members — the first such change in 24 years. The replacement exercise is being implemented in phases among the various units.

    The non-emergency services provided by the AMS to the community include ambulance transfer services, first aid training, first aid coverage at country parks, major public functions and fund raising events, and the daily manning of 20 methadone clinics. In 2002, 16 999 patients benefited from the non-emergency ambulance transfer service, and 3 650 civil servants received training to become qualified first-aiders.

    To better serve the community, the AMS launched a trial scheme in September on the provision of first aid service along the cycling track in Sha Tin. Given the favourable reaction of cyclists and the district community, the service will be extended to cover specific public activities such as the sponsored Hong Kong Marathon and the Community Chest 'Walk for Millions' as well as other fund-raising events.

    To promote civic-mindedness and a healthy lifestyle among young people aged between 10 and 15, the AMS launched its Youth Ambassador Scheme in 1997. In 2002, 510 young people joined this scheme and took part in various activities such as life-saving training, community services and recreational activities.

    The AMS has also participated in the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme coordinated by the Education and Manpower Bureau and during the year organised 17 training courses for 537 school leavers. The various training modules covered basic first aid skills, physical fitness training and team building.

Home Pages

Health, Welfare and Food Bureau: http://www.hwfb.gov.hk

Department of Health: http://www.gov.hk/dh

Hospital Authority: http://www.ha.org.hk

Auxiliary Medical Service: http://www.gov.hk/ams