Some patients who call 999 to be redirected to GP or treatment centre

Ambulance trusts across the country are under intense pressure.

The new plan follows a pilot by the London Ambulance Service and West Midlands Ambulance Service (PA) (PA Wire)

NHS leaders have welcomed a plan for some patients who call 999 to be redirected to a GP or an urgent treatment centre.

NHS England is rolling out a scheme whereby around 40% of patients who fall under category 2 calls to 999 – but who have a condition that may be better treated elsewhere – receive a call back from a medic or nurse to assess their needs.

When appropriate, those patients will be referred to other services in a bid to reduce the load on ambulance crews.