Feasibility of a computer-assisted feedback system between dispatch centre and ambulances

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medical Services
• Health Informatics
• Clinical Communication Systems

Background:

• Effective communication between emergency medical dispatch centers and ambulances is crucial for optimal patient care.
• Existing feedback mechanisms may lack structure, hindering systematic evaluation and improvement of emergency medical responses.
• A novel computer-assisted feedback system was developed to enhance communication within the Swedish emergency medical system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of a newly developed computer-assisted feedback system.
• To assess the accuracy and utility of feedback codes exchanged between dispatch centers and ambulances in Stockholm.

Main Methods:

• A computer-assisted feedback system, adapted from a Finnish model, was implemented in Stockholm.
• Feedback codes were categorized into patient assessment, transport decisions, and priority levels.
• Data from 530 feedback codes and 240 ambulance assignments were analyzed, comparing ambulance records with feedback codes.

Main Results:

• The feedback codes sent from ambulances to the emergency medical communication center (EMCC) were accurate in 92% of assignments.
• The most frequent feedback code indicated agreement with the dispatcher's assessment.
• A mismatch between dispatcher and ambulance nurse assessments occurred in 160 assignments.

Conclusions:

• The computer-assisted feedback system demonstrated acceptable feasibility with a low error rate.
• The system facilitates structured feedback, enabling medical dispatchers to receive systematic input.
• The EMCC can systematically evaluate protocol changes through structured feedback from ambulances.