Effectiveness of the call-out system for a London Coronary Ambulance service.
St Bartholomew's Hospital, in the City of London, has for many years run a Coronary Ambulance service, called by the public via the 999 system. During a 9-month period only 55% of 214 cardiac emergencies arriving at St Bartholomew's Hospital came with Coronary Ambulance support, although the service was available if called. In cases where the Coronary Ambulance was summoned, the call-out was inappropriate in 57% of cases. In addition, 153 cardiac emergencies arrived at the Accident and Emergency Department during hours when the Coronary Ambulance was not available. Reasons for breakdowns in the call-out system are discussed and remedies involving the public and London Ambulance Control are suggested.
McLauchlan
C A
CA
St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, England.
Driscoll
P A
PA
Whimster
F
F
Dymond
D S
DS
Skinner
D V
DV
D000552:Ambulances / Q000592:standards*; D003142:Communication; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008131:London; D012151:Resuscitation / Q000592:standards; D000078329:Workforce