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Dr Hilary Jones explained on Good Morning Britain why patients must follow the proposed new rule, regarding the 111 service and A&E.
The public will be urged to contact 111 if they are unwell or experiencing an emergency before visiting A&E, on a new system currently being tested in some parts of the UK, amid a surge in cases of coronavirus before winter.
Patients are expected to be safer from Covid-19 as they will be screened over the phone before they are given a specific time to visit their hospital.
The system, which is yet to be rolled out across the UK, would mean fewer people in waiting rooms where the virus can spread, as well as making it easier for hospital staff to manage.
If the trials are successful, it is reported that it could be rolled out to all hospitals by December this year.
By calling 111, the patient will give details of their need for an A&E appointment, and the service will give them time to visit, after Dr. Hilary revealed how many people were using A&E “inappropriately” and caused them to be fill.
(Image: ITV)
Speaking at GMB, host Kate Garraway shared why the public may be confused about the idea that people need to book an appointment for an emergency.
But Hilary explained why it was necessary and the benefits of following the system amid the ongoing pandemic.
Kate said, “I always thought you only went to the ER when it was a clear emergency anyway, so this feels like another layer to add more confusion.”
(Image: ITV)
Hilary agreed, but revealed that it was a “good thing” and that it would help stop the spread of Covid-19 at A&E.
He said, “People will scratch their heads, but it actually makes sense.
“People have been using A&E inappropriately quite often. There were 14 million people going to A&E and they hadn’t seen their GP first or called 111 first, they just went there.
(Image: ITV)
“Sometimes they are inappropriately obstructing A&E, so this is part of the Help Us Help You campaign which will be launched soon.
“What they want people to do is call 111 first to discuss their problems, and then 111 can give you a schedule at A&E.
“The idea of this is that you will not wait in the waiting room, you will not be exposed to an increased risk of Covid-19 to other people, they will see you faster when you get there, and also to help staff manage cases more appropriate and efficient.
“At first glance, it’s a good thing.”
Good Morning Britain airs Monday through Friday at 6am on ITV.
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