THE East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) has declared its highest alert level due to mounting winter pressure reports the BBC.
EEAST said it had seen an “unprecedented level” of calls and increased pressures at hospitals across the region, leading to longer handover times.
It also said the move anticipated an increase in demand because of cold weather and the New Year’s celebrations.
EEAST medical director Simon Walsh said crews were “stretched to the limit” and urged people to think carefully before calling 999.
The service warned patients may face longer than normal waits for an ambulance and encouraged people to make their own way to hospital where possible.
Mr Walsh said: “There is an outstanding level of pressure on the whole health system in the East of England.
“We have seen a huge spike in demand, driven by an increase in respiratory illness, which means many of our hospitals are at capacity and our ambulance crews are stretched to the limit.”
He said where possible, people should try to see their GP, use 111 or take themselves to hospital unless experiencing a medical emergency.
“During periods of high demand for our services, patients with urgent and immediately life-threatening conditions are our priority.
“Those with less serious conditions will be advised that there may be a delayed response or, if it is safe to do so, they should seek alternative care.
“We apologise in advance to anyone experiencing delays,” he said.
