New app allows Hampshire 999 callers to video call ambulance operators
People in Hampshire who call 999 for help from an ambulance will soon be able to stream video of the scene to help emergency responders.
South Central Ambulance Service is launching a system called GoodSAM Instant on Scene which allows people to stream video from their phones directly to the 999 call centre.
This means that operators can more accurately describe their injuries to emergency responders, and show them the scene of the incident in a matter of seconds.
When someone calls 999, the call handler will be able to send either a text message or an email with a link it. If the caller clicks the link, footage from their phone will be streamed back to the clinical co-ordination centre so the right medical response is sent out.
A statement from Scas said: ‘There’s nothing to download and no logins, the system works on any smartphone and on any network; its use is entirely voluntary.’
Luci Stephens, director of operations for the clinical co-ordination centres, said: ‘This marks the start of an exciting new chapter in patient care by SCAS.
‘We have previously been able to resolve patients’ healthcare issues, either by the dispatch of an emergency ambulance, by referring them to other areas of the NHS to receive ongoing care or by advising them over the telephone how to manage their symptoms at home.
‘Using GoodSAM’s Instant On Scene brings an additional visual layer to our well-practised processes and procedures and this will help to ensure that our patients get the right care, in the right place and at the right time.’
The GoodSAM app also gives the caller’s location to the ambulance service.
All data is securely transmitted with end-to-end encryption and no video is recorded.
Medical director and co-founder of GoodSAM, Professor Mark Wilson said: ‘In emergencies, time is vital in saving a person’s life or reducing long-term disability. Often ambulance services have limited information from bystanders about a patient’s, or multiple patients’, injuries to make decisions. Instantly being able to see the scene radically improves situational awareness.’
The initiative is being supported by NHS Digital.