The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the creation of six new emergency medical technician (EMT) positions as authorities move to expand 24-hour emergency services in response to rising demand for ambulance care.

Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office Maurice Merchant said the decision was taken during this week’s Cabinet meeting to strengthen the country’s emergency response system.

He said emergency call volumes have climbed from 14,318 in 2022 to 16,311 in 2024, with sustained high demand continuing into 2025.

“The Ministry has received Cabinet’s approval for the creation of six new EMT positions to support expanding operations,” Merchant said.

The expansion will include the establishment of a 24-hour emergency medical services outpost at the Glanvilles Polyclinic, aimed at improving access to care, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Officials also pointed to growing pressure on support services, noting that the paratransit unit assisted more than 1,100 patients last year, including those requiring dialysis and physical therapy.

Merchant said the additional staffing and extended service hours are expected to improve response times and enhance the overall efficiency of emergency medical services as demand continues to increase.