Ambulance Service receives record number of calls

North West Ambulance Service logo

The North West Ambulance Service has responded to 19,328 emergency 999 incidents over the past week, with over 8,000 of those categorised as life threatening – a record high for the service.

Heavy snowfall across the region has added to the pressure on the service and the Trust has warned that some patients will wait longer than usual for a response. Staff are working very hard to reach all those who need medical assistance as quickly as possible, with some going to extraordinary lengths to get to patients who need them.

Derek Cartwright, Director of Emergency Services, said: “In preparation for winter, we have invested in 4x4 vehicles, specialist winter tyres and other resources but the treacherous conditions have meant that we have relied on support from partners, including Mountain Rescue and the Coastguard who are also helping NWAS get to patients in hard to access areas.

“When attending to a woman in labour in Skelmersdale, crews sought the help of Mountain Recue to pull our vehicles out of the snow.

“North West communities are doing their bit too and paramedics have cited how members of the public have helped dig out vehicles when they have got stuck.”

NWAS continues to urge the public to think before calling 999 to ease the pressure by selecting the most appropriate form of medical assistance. Some examples received over the last few days include, a woman who called 999 because she had cold feet after walking home in no shoes for fear of slipping and a young man who had a suspected broken finger.

The Ambulance Service is an active supporter of NHS North West’s Choose Well campaign, and bears the logo on all its vehicles with straplines such as ‘please keep this ambulance free for emergencies’. The campaign’s objective is to highlight alternative pathways of care to patients such as NHS Direct, pharmacies, walk-in centres, minor injury units and GPs while explaining that visits to A&E departments and ambulances should be for urgent cases only.

By selecting the most appropriate service for their illness, patients can ensure they receive the best possible treatment and 999/emergency services are available for those who have an urgent medical need. If any patients are unsure, NHS Direct can advise on the best course of action. They can be contacted on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk