By Jaidyn Kennedy
Ambulance Victoria (AV) wants the community to know that there are ways of getting medical assistance without calling triple-0.
In the latest quarter between January and March, ambulance response times improved across Wyndham.
The average response time in the municipality improved, decreasing from 15:13 to 14:54.
The total number of incidents paramedics were called to remained relatively consistent, slightly increasing from 3271 to 3274.
The rate of incidents responded to in less than 15 minutes also improved, rising from 65.4 per cent last quarter to 66.2 per cent.
AV Wyndham area manager Jessica McGowan said despite the improved numbers, there are still ways locals can make life a little easier on paramedics.
“It’s important that everyone plays their part. If your matter is not an emergency, consider using alternative care options so our highly skilled paramedics can stay available for those who need them most,” she said.
“Our dedicated paramedics and first responders across Melbourne’s suburbs do an incredible job in the face of record-breaking demand, providing best care to our communities every day.”
The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department is available anywhere, anytime, from the comfort of your home at www.vved.org.au, which is an important resource in helping patients avoid unnecessary trips to hospital.
As we enter winter, Ms McGowan said it is also important to make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
“Staying up to date with your flu and Covid vaccinations helps protect yourself and your community — and plays a vital role in easing pressure on our paramedics during the busy winter period,“ she said.
Other options are your local urgent care clinics, general practitioners (GPs), pharmacists or nurse-on-call on 1300 60 60 24
Ms McGowan said the recent opening of the Manor Lakes ambulance branch will be a vital asset to responding to emergencies across Wyndham.
