A new phone number has been set up for Oxfordshire people who need to call an ambulance, but not in an emergency.
In April, frontline staff from the South Central Ambulance Service Trust responded to more than 24,000 patient transport journeys – more than two and a half times the number of emergency 999 calls.
From June 1, all Oxfordshire residents needing to use the trust’s Patient Transport Service will have to call 0300 100 0015.
Calls will be answered by staff in the SCAS Bicester call centre. They will ask patients questions to see whether they are eligible for the service, including whether they have access to their own transport or are able to get a lift.
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