Commentary from BAIC

Thank you for requesting a commentary directly from the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS). BASICS is always delighted to consider any proposal that improves the delivery of immediate care in the UK. In this article, the authors have provided a vast array of proposals, culminating in a licensing system for practitioners of immediate care based on an examination system. Our association has long recognised the need for the “licensing” of practitioners and introduced an accreditation programme that has been running for over 6 years. The programme encompasses a wide range of practitioners. It recognises that the PHEC course is a minimum standard and we have always encouraged regular responders to undertake the Diploma examination. Furthermore, it recognises experience. We have always discouraged the use of untrained staff to work in the pre-hospital environment. Unfortunately, …