With warmer weather on its way, Ambulance Victoria has reminded Victorians to update their asthma action plans this spring.

AV Emergency Management Director Justin Dunlop said creating an asthma action plan is an easy and potentially lifesaving step.

“It’s simple — visit your GP, and they can create a plan with you,” he said.

“Everyone’s asthma action plan will look different, and it will help you manage your condition, ensuring you don’t find yourself in an emergency.”

Asthma can affect people of all ages and, if unmanaged, can develop into a serious health concern.

Adults should update their asthma action plan yearly, while plans for children should be updated every six months.

Victorians who experience hay fever and also symptoms of asthma such as coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness are encouraged to consult their GP.

Taking preventive action, Mr Dunlop said, is key to making a real difference to Victoria’s busy paramedics.

“Follow your asthma action plan, and most importantly, if a person is having difficulty breathing and their reliever medicine is not working, don’t delay in calling 000,” he said.

AV is also encouraging Victorians to know where to go for timely medical care and health advice to help save 000 for emergencies.

The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department is available at www.vved.org.au and is a free 24/7 online service. It connects people with emergency doctors and nurses from anywhere in the state.

You can also visit an Urgent Care Clinic, which provides GP-led care to those who need urgent care, but not an emergency response. To find your nearest Urgent Care Clinic, visit the Better Health website.

Other options for care include GPs, pharmacists and NURSE-ON-CALL, which can be reached on 1300 606 024.

Visit the Better Health website at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionandtreatments/asthma-action-plans to find more information about asthma action plans.

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Sunday, 3rd December 2023

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