The National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) is appealing to members of the public reporting a medical emergency through 919 to identify wherever possible, the likelihood that they may be COVID positive. The appeal comes as Emergency Services are recording increased instances of inaccurate information leading to delays in services and a misallocation of resources.

During an emergency call, the dispatcher asks basic questions about the nature of the medical emergency and seeks clarification regarding the COVID-19 status of the patient or whether they are displaying symptoms of the disease.  These questions assist the dispatcher in ensuring that the appropriate first responder assistance team is dispatched to facilitate care and transport the patient to hospital.

   

NEMS wishes to confirm that all calls for medical assistance will be responded to regardless of the nature of the call.  Callers should not be fearful of providing full disclosure to the dispatcher at the time of the call.  Accurate information assists NEMS in providing the most appropriate and timely care from our first responders.

The public is advised to follow all announcements and public advisories from the Ministry of Health and Public Hospitals Authority regarding Health and Hospital Services.