EEAST moves to REAP level 4 due to sustained high demand

This step aligns with similar actions taken by other ambulance services nationwide, who are also experiencing increased pressure.

In the week ending 30 November, EEAST took almost 24,000 999 calls from the public – an increase of nearly 3,000 calls on the previous week. That number continued to increase last week, with over 24,400 calls received.

Patient handover delays at hospitals have also significantly increased, as hospitals within the region have faced increased pressure due to rises in respiratory and viral illnesses, such as flu.

What this means for patients and how you can help

The extreme pressure on the ambulance service has led to an increase in response times, so patients are waiting longer for an ambulance. By moving to REAP Level 4, EEAST can implement additional measures to help ensure we get to those who need us as quickly as possible, such as deploying all available clinicians to frontline duties.

The public can play a vital role in keeping care flowing this winter:

• Use NHS 111 – If your condition isn’t an emergency, call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
• Stay well this winter – Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, keep warm, eat well, stay active, and practice good hygiene.
• Be prepared – Keep basic medicines at home and ensure prescriptions are up to date.
• Look after your mental health – Stay connected, get daylight, and seek support if you're struggling.

Where it is clinically safe to do so, patients who call 999 may be advised to make their own way to hospital, freeing up ambulances to attend to the most seriously unwell patients.

Neil Moloney, Chief Executive of EEAST, said: "There is an extraordinary level of pressure on the health system nationally, and we have made the decision to move to REAP 4 – the highest escalation level.

"We have seen a huge spike in demand, driven by an increase in respiratory illness, which means many hospitals are at capacity and our ambulance resources are stretched as a result.

"I urge the public to think carefully before using 999. If you have a medical emergency, we will get to you, but there may be a delay.

"During periods of high demand, patients with immediately life-threatening conditions are our priority. Those with less serious conditions will experience delays and may be referred to other NHS services or given self-care advice. We apologise to anyone affected by these delays."