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Video consultations

Sometimes it can be hard to determine what care a patient needs from verbal description alone. That’s why North East Ambulance Service is now using video conferencing software to enable clinicians working within the Emergency Operations Centre to carry out face to face consultations with some patients.

If, after calling 999 or 111 and going through the triage process, it is deemed that you need to speak to a clinician, you may be asked if you are willing to take part in a video consultation.

This is to enable the clinician to gain a better understanding of your symptoms to help determine the level of care – and response – you require. In some cases, this may mean we are able to provide you support without the need for an ambulance or further treatment.

Examples of where this type of technology may be used include:

• Patients trying to describe a rash or injury
• Patients who have lost blood but are struggling to describe how much
• Patients who have limited verbal responses but use facial expressions or behaviours

Where the clinician feels they would benefit from added visual assessment they will call you and ask if you would be happy to participate in a video consultation. If you agree, you will be sent an email or text message allowing you to access the appointment on a smart device. By clicking the link, you will actively consent to the video consultation. You have an option not to choose consultation via the video and this will not affect the clinical care NEAS will provide for you.

A video explaining how and why we are using this software is also available to view here: