Seasonal illnesses are circulating throughout communities and Ambulance Victoria (AV) is asking Victorians to help our busy paramedics by saving Triple Zero (000) for emergencies.
We know seasonal illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 are starting to take hold as the cold weather starts to set in.
Now is the time to protect yourself and learn what alternative care options are available.
Please contact Triple Zero (000) only in case of an emergency.
Our priority is to respond to the sickest patients who need life-saving care first, and during periods of high demand there may be delays for less urgent cases.
If you don't require emergency transport and are well enough to drive or have someone who can assist, please consider taking yourself to a GP, Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) or emergency department.
AV Director Emergency Management Justin Dunlop said about one in five calls to Triple Zero (000) do not need an emergency ambulance response.
"For non-life-threatening matters, you should consider using an alternative care pathway," he said.
"While we will always have as many crews on the road as we can, every call that isn't an emergency puts even further strain on them to reach those who need us the most."
"That is why we urge you to save Triple Zero (000) for emergencies and if it's not life-threatening - access alternative care options which are available all day, every day."
The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The VVED, which can connect you from anywhere in Victoria with emergency doctors and nurses, has been accessed by more than 290,000 Victorians since 2020.
Mr Dunlop said thousands of patients have been able to be safely treated in their own homes and avoid a trip to hospital by using VVED.
"You can also visit a PPCC, which provides GP-led care to people who need urgent care, but not emergency response," he said.
"Most people with the flu will not need an ambulance and minor symptoms can be managed at home with rest."
"By using these alternative care options, it helps keep our ambulances available for the sickest patients, particularly those with life-threatening conditions."
People can also get care from their GP, pharmacist, or NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024.
Mr Dunlop also reminded Victorians to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible.
"This time of year, is a particularly bad time for the spread of illnesses and a busy time for our paramedics," he said.
"By staying up to date with your yearly vaccinations, it helps you and the people around you.
"It also makes a difference by reducing demand on our paramedics who are facing a busy period ahead."
