They may also be played an automated message advising them of the high demand for service and to either call back later or expect a long delay.

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For many destinations the call-back service is still cheaper.

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At the end of the call the system recommends the best course of action, which might be a call back from a doctor, an appointment or a 999 call to the ambulance service.

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Aasen said she was waiting for Maggie to call her back with an update but knew cellphone service was slow in the area.

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He also welcomed the call for better collaboration between the local authorities in order to ensure a more effective service and cut back on expenditure.

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Operators answering calls to the existing NHS Direct service do not have the capacity to request ambulances or book appointments - and patients also receive a separate call back if they need to speak to a nurse or doctor.

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