Residents are being asked to help NSW Ambulance paramedics and staff as they face 'busier than ever' conditions.
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NSW Ambulance associate director clinical operations, western sector David Horseman delivered two messages to the Dubbo community this week.
"Save triple zero for emergencies," Mr Horseman said.
"If you have other options, a general practitioner, a pharmacy or Health Direct, please use those as you can. Also, get vaccinated."
Mr Horsemen said it has been a challenging time for paramedics and control centre staff, particularly during the lockdown.
"We've been busier than ever and it can be unexpected what the paramedics are turning up to," he said.
Mr Horseman said just a few weeks ago a crew was called to a Dubbo residence where two COVID-19 positive patients were quite unwell, but when they arrived, they found the two unwell patients and another 14 people inside the house with varying symptoms.
"They triaged and sorted out what they needed to do with these patients and contacted the Local Health District to bring out some mobile testing to make sure we were able to either transport or leave them in the community," he said.
"Our paramedics and control centre staff are doing an amazing job out there.
"They're exceptional workers in very difficult times.
"Their work is very diverse. When the paramedics go out, when they come on shift during the day or night, they don't know what they're going to be called to.
"Their workplace is their stations, hospitals, the side of the road, people's properties, it's in hot and cold weather, in rain, wearing full PPE.
"So, I want to thank all of our staff.
"We're also still responding to everyday emergencies. Not everything is COVID-related.
"We love to help the community, that's why we do it, but at the same time, the community can help us too. "
Mr Horsemen said NSW Ambulance call takers across the state are receiving one call every 25 seconds and paramedics are responding to an increase in activity of around 10 per cent based on last year's figures.
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