General News
2 May, 2024
Save Triple Zero for emergencies
Locals paramedics are urging residents to access alternative care options and get their vaccinations now before winter, as new data shows demand for emergency ambulances remains high. January to March, 2024, was the busiest third quarter on record...
Locals paramedics are urging residents to access alternative care options and get their vaccinations now before winter, as new data shows demand for emergency ambulances remains high.
January to March, 2024, was the busiest third quarter on record for emergency ambulances with 150,048 Code One and Code Two cases combined.
Despite demand increasing, paramedics across Victoria responded to 67.7 percent of Code One cases within the statewide target of 15 minutes — up from 65.2 percent a year ago.
In Maryborough, paramedics attended 69.1 percent of Code One patients within 15 minutes — up from 59.9 percent a year earlier, it is the third largest improvement in the state.
“Our hardworking paramedics and first responders in the Loddon Mallee Region deliver world-class care every day in the face of ongoing high demand — and we can all do our part to help,” Ambulance Victoria (AV) Loddon Mallee Regional Director Matt McCrohan said.
“Winter is a particularly bad time for the spread of illness. The good news is getting your flu shot and staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations will help you and the people around you stay well.
“We also encourage all Victorians to take care of themselves, keep regular check-ups with your GP or specialist — and if it’s not urgent, get familiar with alternative care pathways.”
Acting executive director clinical operations Andrew Keenan said there were many options people could access when they need timely medical care and health advice but not an emergency ambulance.
“By using these services, it helps keep our ambulances ready and available for the sickest patients, particularly those with life-threatening conditions,” he said.
“If it’s not life-threatening, you can connect directly with emergency doctors and nurses at the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department from anywhere in Victoria, 24-hours, seven days a week.
“Other options also include your local Priority Primary Care Centre in Bendigo and Mildura, your GP or pharmacist, or Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24.
“We again remind everyone to save Triple Zero (000) for emergencies — this is to ensure the sickest Victorians receive life-saving care. If you do need an emergency ambulance, always call Triple Zero (000).”