NHS bosses are asking for the public’s help as the health service in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes faces unprecedented pressure.
A rise in Covid patients being admitted to local hospitals, coupled with the impact that the current heat wave is having, is resulting in local hospitals and ambulance services struggling to cope with demand, bosses say.
The public is being urged to only call 999 for an ambulance or attend A&E in the event that they have a genuine emergency.
A spokesperson said: "If in doubt, think 111 first. Go online - Get medical help - NHS 111 – for advice, or call NHS 1111 for an assessment and instruction on where to get urgent medical help.
"The overall message is simple – keep emergency medical services available for real emergencies. Please think about alternative ways to seek help with any healthcare issues and if you are advised that you do need hospital care, please consider whether it is safe for you to make your own way there."
