Suffolk ambulance service deploys 90 extra ambulances per day amidst unprecedented demand
The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) received more than 39,000 emergency calls between Christmas Day and New Year's Day, an unprecedented spike of 7,500 calls above typical summer levels.
Why it matters: The service has moved to its highest alert level and added 90 extra ambulances per day to manage the crisis. However, this extraordinary pressure will likely lead to longer wait times for emergency care during one of the year's busiest periods.
By the numbers:
- 39,000+ calls received in 8 days
- 7,500 more calls than in typical summer periods
- 90 additional ambulances deployed daily for the next week
Emergency measures launched:
- Increased frontline operations and emergency centre staffing
- Redeployed clinicians to frontline services
- Paired clinicians with non-clinical drivers
- Offered overtime incentives
- Enhanced clinical assessment service for call triage
- Worked with partners to find alternative care pathways
What they're saying: "I urge the public to only call 999 if there is a life-threatening emergency," says Neill Moloney, Chief Executive of EEAST. "Many people will be treated more quickly by using 111, seeing their GP or making their own way to hospital. Arriving by ambulance will not mean you will be seen more quickly."
What it means for patients:
- Life-threatening emergencies remain the priority
- Less urgent cases face longer waits
Alternative care options include:
- NHS 111
- GP services
- Making own way to hospital
Bottom line: While EEAST has significantly boosted its capacity with additional ambulances and staff, the service warns the coming weekend will be "exceptionally busy" and urges the public to think carefully before calling 999.
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