Aleksei Gaidajenko highlights the importance of ensuring that proposed changes to emergency medical services (EMS) in Estonia do not compromise patient safety. The Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs is contemplating adjustments to the operational framework of emergency departments, but Gaidajenko warns that these changes must be carefully considered rather than rushed, which could lead to detrimental outcomes for patients. He stresses that patient safety and legal clarity should not be sacrificed in the process of reforming emergency services.

The article references an alarming rise in the instances where police have been called to assist individuals who require help getting up at home, with nearly 600 such cases recorded last year compared to just 103 in 2019. This trend raises concerns about the increasing scope of emergency response teams being drawn into social support roles, which may divert resources from their primary functions. Gaidajenko's commentary reflects a critical examination of the balance between responding to social needs and maintaining the integrity and efficiency of emergency services.

In conclusion, Gaidajenko calls for a holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by emergency services, emphasizing the need for a well-thought-out policy that enhances the capacity to provide urgent care without compromising the safety and well-being of patients. The proposed social ambulance initiative in collaboration with the Estonian Red Cross is seen as a step in addressing these issues, but it must be implemented with caution and clarity to avoid any negative impacts on health outcomes.