The service says the military would not be used to respond to emergency 999 calls
The armed forces have been drafted in to support an ambulance service during the latest round of industrial action.The service, which covers Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire, said they were expecting up to 20 military staff to be available to help.More than one union is expected to take part in the walk-out.
EMAS said during the last round of strikes - on 6 and 7 February - demand on the service had been high. They said the military would provide support by responding to non-emergency patients, helping to protect the limited number of ambulances available for seriously ill patients. Ben Holdaway, director of operations at EMAS said: "We expect the industrial action period next week to be very challenging, and the implementation of military support has always been part of the NHS plans in case of increased and sustained pressure."Their role will be to drive vehicles in addition to the safe moving and handling of lower acuity patients and essential equipment.
"This will enable our emergency crews to focus on responding to life-threatening and very serious 999 calls."EMAS previously requested help from military personnel in response to high demand and staff absence due to Covid in January 2022.
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