“We’ve seen about a 30 percent decrease in call-outs in recent weeks and are concerned that members of the community might be frightened to call an ambulance for fear of COVID-19, or just don’t want to be a burden on us during a pandemic,” he said.
“We are concerned people, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions, who might need us, aren’t calling triple zero.”
Mr Maywald said Ambulance Victoria had been preparing for COVID-19 since mid-January and had enough ambulances and paramedics to meet demand.
“Remember that our paramedics have the right equipment to keep themselves and their patients safe from all types of infection, including COVID-19, as do our hospitals,” he said.
“Our ambulances and emergency departments are safe places to be.
“The bottom line is, people with serious conditions need to call triple zero.
“Ambulance Victoria has always and will always be there for people in their time of need.
“There’s a time to be stoic, and it’s not during a health emergency – that’s a time to call triple zero.”
Mr Maywald encouraged people to check in on elderly relatives, neighbours or friends via phone.
“If people have health concerns, such as an onset of shortness of breath, chest pains, facial drooping or weakness, for example, they must dial triple zero,” he said.
“Every second counts when it comes to respiratory or cardiac conditions, or stroke.
“If a patient does not need a lights-and-sirens ambulance response, we will find the right care for that patient at that time.”
Mr Maywald praised the community for its role in flattening the curve, which has provided the health system with the time and capacity to effectively manage COVID-19 in Victoria.
“It’s promising to see the number of COVID-19 cases in Victoria decrease, but we still need everyone who can stay home to stay home,” he said.
“If you have to go out, be vigilant about social distancing.
“Wash your hands thoroughly and often, and don’t touch your face because the primary path of infection is through your mouth, nose and eyes.
“For the same reason, and for the safety of others, sneeze or cough into your elbow.”
Ambulance Victoria is reminding Victorians to continue following the Department of Health and Human Services advice to practise good hygiene and maintain physical distancing.
The entire May 20, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!