Think before you dial 999 (From Worcester News)

Think before you dial 999

11:57am Wednesday 26th December 2007

• Print
• Email
• Share

THE ambulance service is calling for people to celebrate the new year safely and avoid dialling 999 other than for genuine emergencies.

The winter is always a busy time for the NHS and the ambulance service in particular, with a significant increase in calls during Christmas and new year.

The service wants people to use their common sense before dialling 999 and to use other health resources if appropriate. Chief executive officer Anthony Marsh said: "The trust is better prepared than ever to deal with incidents over this period and our staff are working extremely hard to make sure that the West Midlands continues to enjoy one of the best ambulance services in the country.

"If you or a loved one does find themselves ill, please take a moment before you dial 999 to think about whether there is a more appropriate place for your call to be dealt with. Clearly, if there is an emergency, dial 999 and an ambulance will be sent immediately. However, if it is something less urgent, consider if one of the other arms of the NHS could provide a more appropriate service.

"There does seem to be a misconception about what happens if you do call for an ambulance. Some callers believe that they will be seen more quickly at an A&E department by being brought in by ambulance. The reality is that each patient is triaged by hospital staff and the most serious cases are seen first."

Guidlines to avoid the need to dial 999 include: Step 1: Keep your own medicine cabinet stocked with common remedies for coughs, colds and headaches as well as items such as sticking plasters for minor wounds and grazes.

Step 2: Visit your local pharmacy for over the counter medicines and advice l Step 3: Call NHS Direct for advice on 0845 46 47 or log onto www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk which can give information and advice about many things.

l Step 4: Use a walk-in treatment centre or visit a minor injuries unit.

l Step 5: Make an appointment with your own GP. There is also an out-of-hours service available l Step 6: In an emergency go to your local A&E department or call 999 for an ambulance.

If you do still need to dial 999, remember to keep calm so that information can be recorded accurately and quickly. You should also listen carefully to the advice given by the emergency medical dispatchers.

• Print
• Email
• Share