New changes to 999 call response system ‘will save lives’

The government has unveiled changes to the way 999 calls are received and processed that will help to save lives and ensure better use of NHS resources.

Under the new plans, ambulance staff will be given up to 60 seconds longer to get more information from calls designated with Red 2 status, used to describe serious cases where this small delay will not affect the patient's outcome.

This will provide hospitals with the time to ensure that the most appropriate response vehicles are sent, while making sure the most critically ill patients are correctly prioritised.

Pilot schemes in London and the West Midlands showed that those in critical need were reached at least 40 seconds faster, while a reduction in cancellations of at least 24 percent was also achieved.

Matthew Cooke, national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, said: "We want to make sure that everyone who needs emergency medical assistance gets it. These changes will make sure that the right support is sent to the right place and reaches patients fast."

This comes after a report from the National Audit Office last year suggested too much focus has been placed on time targets when assessing 999 call responses in the past, leading to over-commitment of vehicles and staff resources.