As paramedics in Greater Manchester and other ambulance service staff take strike action across Greater Manchester today, NHS bosses have moved to issue guidance on what to do if you think you need an ambulance.
It is expected that all category 1 calls - the most life-threatening such as cardiac arrest - will be responded to. Some ambulance trusts have agreed to exemptions with unions for specific incidents within so-called category 2 which covers serious conditions, such as stroke or chest pain.
However, patients in category three - typically including falls - and category four are unlikely to be sent an ambulance during the strikes. NWAS' Patient Transport Service - which takes people from their homes to hospitals - will only prioritise patients attending cancer, renal and palliative care appointments.
