Queensland Ambulance Service urges elderly residents to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) is reminding elderly residents in Queensland to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

QAS Commissioner Russell Bowles said older residents were often hesitant or reluctant to call QAS because they did not think their condition was serious enough to call paramedics.

“We are finding a lot of people don’t want to call Triple Zero (000) because they think paramedics should be helping others and not them,” he said.

“Often this may not be the case and it may take longer to get help for someone in need.”

Mr Bowles said paramedics don’t just attend to those critically injured in car accidents; they help, and treat, all members of the community no matter how serious they think their injury is.

“Paramedics are skilled clinicians who are able to rapidly assess and treat patients and determine if someone needs to be taken to hospital or not,” he said.

Mr Bowles wanted to stress that just because you call Triple Zero (000), it doesn’t mean you will be taken to hospital.

“We check people’s vital signs and can apply dressings to patients in their own home and we don’t always have to transport them,” he said.

“Some of the minor injuries people should be aware of included falls, bleeding and chest pain as these could lead to more serious injuries if not treated.

“Sometimes a neighbour or family member can help, but we stress the importance of first calling Triple Zero (000) when an incident occurs.

“We have highly trained Emergency Medical Dispatchers to talk you through whatever emergency situation you’re in.

“First up, they’ll ask you for the address of where you’re calling from and your phone number and then they will ask you a few questions about your condition and it’s important to stay calm and answer their questions which will help ensure help arrives quickly.”

Queensland Ambulance Service

Department of Health