Successful trials of a new method of screening ambulance calls will see England’s public told to seek alternative treatment unless their condition is life-threatening.
The BBC reported that NHS England wants calls reviewed so those concerning non-life-threatening conditions – referred to under category two, which includes emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes but also burns and severe headaches – are referred instead to an urgent treatment clinic, a GP or a pharmacist.
Some 40% of calls classed as category two will now receive callbacks from a doctor, nurse or paramedic to investigate the possibility of an ambulance alternative.
