Ambulance strike in UK: Check services that will be disrupted

Emergency services – ambulance workers, paramedics, and call handlers are striking on Wednesday over pay raise. The services will be disrupted in some parts of England and Wales.

The NHS and other institutions are doing everything in their power to minimize disruption. However, doctors all over the region are advising the public to take precautionary measures.

Emergency Categories

Emergencies have been divided into four categories – 1, 2, 3, and 4.


Category 1 is life-threatening, and it includes patients who are suffering cardiac arrest or severe allergic reactions. They will be responded to by an ambulance.

Category 2 is for Emergencies with people who are suffering strokes or severe burns.

Category 3 is Urgent, and people with critical wounds or abdominal pain are classified in it.



Category 4 is for Non-Urgent patients with Diarrhea, vomiting and urinary infections.

All other categories except Category 1 will not get a response from the ambulance service. Clinicians are brought in to answer 999 calls and gauge if the situation should be prioritized. However, doctors are advising people that they should call in and ask for help if there is any doubt.

How are hospitals preparing?

Hospitals have been advised to free up beds. They should discharge as many patients as possible if they are ready to go home. More space in hospitals would mean less waiting time for ambulances.

Sometimes ambulances have to wait for 10-15 extra minutes to transfer patients to hospital beds because of a lack of space.

Army troops, Navy and RAF will also be deployed. Around 600 members of the army will be working to help people struggling with their health. They will help in transporting patients with less urgent conditions.

FAQs:

1. Are all Ambulance services going on strike on December 21?
   Not all unions are going on a strike, and neither are they striking at the same time. There are no plans for a strike in the East of England.
2. What to do if I have a medical appointment on December 21?
   If you have an appointment on December 21 you should attend as planned. In case there has been any change you might have received a rescheduling call. If there has not been any contact, it is advised that you continue with your appointment.