Barwon South West region is one of the busiest local government areas (LGA) in the state for paramedics, according to recent Ambulance Victoria (AV) data.
New data found that paramedics attended 4742 Greater Geelong Code 1 (immediate risk of death to a person) cases between January and March.
Barwon South West regional director Jessica McGowan said Greater Geelong cases contributed 4.91 per cent of the state’s total Code 1 workload.
“Our hardworking paramedics and first responders in the Barwon South West Region deliver world-class care every day in the face of ongoing high demand,” she said.
“Along with simple things like staying home if you’re unwell and washing and sanitising your hands often, routine winter vaccinations can protect what’s most important to all of us: our health.
“We also encourage all Victorians to take care of themselves, keep regular check-ups with your GP or specialist and if it’s not urgent, get familiar with alternative care pathways.”
Response times to Code 1 patients in the Surf Coast LGA were also 53 seconds faster than the same time last year, helping meet the statewide target of 15 minutes or below.
AV Clinical Operations acting executive director Andrew Keenan said the public could help lessen the pressure on first responders by seeking alternative medical options for non-life-threatening conditions.
“We continue to work with hospitals to improve transfer times, relieve pressure in the system and ensure ambulances can become available to respond to emergency cases in the community.”
“If it’s not life-threatening, you can connect directly with emergency doctors and nurses at the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department from anywhere in Victoria, 24 hours, seven days a week.
“We again remind everyone to save Triple Zero for emergencies. This is to ensure the sickest Victorians receive life-saving care. If you do need an emergency ambulance, always call Triple Zero.”
