NEWYORK, N.Y., Nov 19, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- New York City health officials
said 311 telephone operators will provide guidance to those who feel sick with a
flulike illness.
New York City's Web site and phone number for government information and
non-emergency service -- 311 -- provides the public with quick access to all
city government services and information.
If a resident or family member feels sick with flulike illness -- fever with
cough or sore throat -- callers will be connected to registered nurses, who will
provide information and advice on whether to seek care. For concerned patients
who don't have or can't reach a regular healthcare provider, NYC FluLine is an
alternative to standing in line at a hospital emergency department, health
department officials said.
The call-center nurses will not make diagnoses or prescribe treatments but they
will advise callers about whether to see a doctor or stay home, health officials
said.
When necessary, on-call nurses will refer people to clinics, facilitating timely
treatment while preventing unnecessary visits to emergency departments.
"The city is activating the NYC FluLine to help New Yorkers decide if they need
medical care for symptoms that might be a sign of influenza," Dr. Thomas Farley,
health commissioner of New York City, said in a statement. "If you think you
might have influenza, and you can't reach a regular healthcare provider, try
calling NYC FluLine before going to an emergency room. It may save you the time
and cost."
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International