Think before you dial 999 for an ambulance

Now that the summer season is upon us and the holiday makers are arriving in all corners of the region, South Western Ambulance Service (SWASFT) is reminding people to Choose Well and only dial 999 in a life threatening emergency.

Over the last weekend (Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th July) the Trust attended a host of incidents including stabbings, cardiac arrests, a sky diving accident and an accident involving a glider.

Ambulance crews also attended countless road traffic collisions, especially as the wet weather hit across the patch, and staff are reminding motorists to take care on the roads, allow extra travel time for your journey and to drive according to the weather conditions.

Everyone at SWASFT is working hard to ensure the summer season is enjoyable for residents and visitors to the area but the public can help make a difference by choosing the right option for their health care needs.

If you need medical help but it is not an emergency you can help keep 999 and hospital accident and emergency (A&E) departments free for those most in need by using a range of alternative healthcare options.

Alternative healthcare options include calling NHS 111, visiting your nearest minor injuries unit, making an appointment with your GP, speaking to your local pharmacist or choosing over-the-counter remedies available in most high street stores and supermarkets.

NHS111 is available 24-hours-a-day, 365 days a year. When patients call 111 they will be assessed by trained call-handlers who are supported in their roles by clinicians. The call-handlers and clinicians then provide healthcare advice and direct people to the most appropriate service for their needs or, if it is an emergency, an ambulance will be arranged automatically during the call.

If you are going out for the day please remember to take any regular medications with you and check the weather forecast to ensure you are prepared for any eventuality.

Ken Wenman, Chief Executive of SWASFT, said: “All our staff are working extremely hard to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer. Members of the public can really help us by only dialing 999 in an emergency.

“Examples of life threatening conditions where an ambulance response would be appropriate include when someone is unconscious, not breathing, having a heart attack, stroke or uncontrollable bleeding.

“As we know, the summer is one of our busiest times and all NHS services, including 999 and hospital A&E departments, will be experiencing very high demand. Please be aware that even if you call 999, unless you are suffering a life threatening emergency, you may not receive an emergency ambulance. Your call will be triaged by an experienced clinician in one of our clinical hubs and you will be given the most appropriate care for your condition.”

The Trust also has a host of health information available on the dedicated patient advice section of our website here: http://www.swast.nhs.uk/patient-advice.htm