1450 is a phone number that few people dialed before the coronavirus pandemic. Health advice by telephone has been available in Austria since March 2018. The use of 1450 in Upper Austria is now to be further developed.
Whether vomiting, rashes or insect bites – patients are often overwhelmed and do not know where to turn. When in doubt, the first address for many is the hospital. “It is necessary to give patients orientation and to refer them to the right places,” said health officer Christine Haberlander (VP) yesterday.
A call to 1450 is intended to optimize and accelerate hospital processes in order to relieve staff and treat patients more quickly. “Every day, around 600 people dial 1,450 to get medical advice. Sometimes they need medical advice, sometimes tips for self-treatment are enough,” says Red Cross President Walter Aichinger. In addition, those who call 1450 should be cared for more quickly in the hospital and have an advantage.
During the approximately 20-minute conversation, the complete medical history is determined, which is immediately forwarded to the hospital. “While the patient is on his way, the doctors already know what they are dealing with,” says Johann Minihuber from the Sisters of Mercy Hospital in Ried.
The pilot project started here and at the Kepler University Hospital in Linz on July 4th. “It’s about simplifying the systems. It’s a win-win-win situation for patients, employees and the health system,” says Franz Harnoncourt from the Upper Austrian Health Holding. In autumn, the pilot project will be evaluated to see whether it can be transferred to other hospitals. (cape)
Source: Nachrichten
