22Staffing of NEPT vehicles

22 Staffing of NEPT vehicles

(1)  Except as otherwise specified in this regulation, the licensee of an NEPT Service must ensure that each NEPT vehicle of the Service is staffed by at least 2 crew members.

(2)  An NEPT vehicle may be staffed by a single crew member if –

(a) in accordance with these regulations, the crew member may provide non-emergency patient transport services while unsupervised; and

(b) the crew member is able to visually monitor the patient at all times; and

(c) the patient –

(i) is a low-acuity patient; and

(ii) is able to be safely assisted into and out of the vehicle by the single crew member; and

(iii) does not have a diagnosed communication disorder; and

(iv) is able to clearly communicate with the crew member while being provided with non-emergency patient transport services; and

(d) if the patient has impaired cognitive function, or confusion or disorientation, the patient is accompanied by a carer escort who is willing and able to support and reassure the patient.

(3)  If a stretcher is used while non-emergency patient transport services are provided, each crew member providing those services must ensure that –

(a) the stretcher is operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions; and

(b) each person operating the stretcher has training in the operation of the stretcher.

Penalty:  Fine not exceeding 4 penalty units.