In response to Ms James' enquiry as to why ambulance crews leave ambulance doors open while attending a patient (Letters, November 3), there is indeed a good reason.

If, after assessing the patient, it transpires they have to be taken to hospital, then there is no delay in transferring them into the vehicle if it is fully prepared.

It would take more time to open the doors and lower the steps or tail-lift.

This would also distract one of the crew members, who would, therefore, not be contributing to the patient's care. Moreover, the patient would be exposed to the rain, snow or whatever the weather was throwing at them during this delay.

Crews are therefore encouraged, particularly with critically-ill patients, to fully prepare the vehicle to receive the person prior to moving him or her from their home.

Any loss of heat will be corrected by the vehicle's heating system.

Yes, there is a risk equipment could be stolen from the back of the ambulance but, in fact, this only happens rarely and, as always, the safety, comfort and care of the patient takes priority.

-Trevor Roman, Sussex Ambulance Service, Lewes