Easy on the triple-zero calls: paramedics

NSW paramedics have taken to social media to encourage people not to bother triple-zero with calls about minor health issues during the peak winter months.

Just 10 per cent of the hundreds of calls fielded each day are for patients with genuine life-threatening emergencies, says NSW Ambulance chief Ray Creen.

A new campaign - #maketherightcall - will educate people about the sorts of niggles, such as coughs, colds and sprains, that can be better managed by GPs or nurses.

"During these busy winter months, when demand is high, we need to make sure NSW Ambulance resources are used appropriately and effectively and not tied up with non-emergency situations," Mr Creen said.