As winter sets in, Hato Hone St John is encouraging New Zealanders to keep on top of their health and seek the right help early, as the emergency ambulance service prepares for the seasonal increase in winter illness.
Last year, the organisation experienced its busiest winter on record, with ambulance crews responding to more than 50,000 incidents in August alone, the highest number recorded in a single month. In the same month, incidents involving breathing difficulties were 33 percent higher than the 12-month average.
“The winter months consistently drive up demand for ambulance services, as colder weather, higher rates of influenza and respiratory illness place additional pressure on the health system,” says Jon Moores, Hato Hone St John Deputy Chief Executive, Clinical Services.
“We are well prepared to manage the seasonal increase in demand, but there are some important steps people can take to protect themselves, their whānau and the wider community.
“This includes staying home if you are sick, particularly to avoid spreading colds, flu and other viruses to people who may be more vulnerable. Wearing a face mask in crowded indoor spaces, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, disposing of used tissues straight away, and washing and drying your hands thoroughly can all help reduce the spread of illness.”
Mr Moores says Hato Hone St John continues to strengthen initiatives that help ease pressure on emergency departments while ensuring patients receive safe, appropriate and timely care.
“When it is clinically safe to do so, some patients may receive advice and care from a clinician over the phone without an ambulance being sent or a trip to the hospital emergency department. Others may be connected with another telehealth provider or a more appropriate healthcare service.”
Mr Moores says it is important New Zealanders understand how and when to access the right healthcare over winter. This includes:
- Calling Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free health advice and information.
- Visiting your local pharmacist for advice and treatment for common or minor health issues.
- Booking an appointment with your doctor or using a 24/7 online GP service if you are generally unwell and need non-urgent care.
- Visiting an after-hours or urgent medical clinic if you are not experiencing a life-threatening emergency but cannot wait to see your usual healthcare provider.
“We encourage everyone to take extra care this winter and look out for their whole whānau. And remember, you should always call 111 for an ambulance in an emergency. Our clinicians are highly trained and ready to provide the care you need.”
ENDS
About Hato Hone St John:
- Hato Hone St John provides emergency ambulance services to 90 percent of people in New Zealand across 97 percent of the country.
- Hato Hone St John is made up of a mix of full-time paid staff and volunteers.
- Along with the emergency ambulance service, Hato Hone St John operates a significant number of community health programmes and other activities which help build community resilience. They include Waka Ora Health Shuttles, ASB Caring Caller, St John Youth, and St John in Schools.
- Hato Hone St John also delivers event health services, medical alarm services, first aid training, and operates retail stores across the country.
For further information please contact:
Hato Hone St John media team
PH: 0800 756 334 | E: media@stjohn.org.nz
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