Prehospital system development in Jaffna, Sri Lanka

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Emergency Medicine
• Health Systems Strengthening

Background:

• Establishing prehospital emergency medical care (EMS) systems is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality in developing countries.
• This case report details the development and initial operational year of a prehospital care system in Jaffna District, Sri Lanka.
• The study aims to contribute to the literature on EMS in developing nations by offering implementation insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the development and operational results of a prehospital emergency care system in Jaffna District, Sri Lanka.
• To analyze the utilization and financial performance of the system during its first year.
• To identify factors contributing to the system's success and its prospects for sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Data analysis of call center records from the Jaffna Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS).
• Financial performance review using data from the implementing organization, Medical Teams International.
• Evaluation of system utilization and financial outcomes over the first 12 months of operation.

Main Results:

• The system successfully responded to over 2000 emergency calls within the first 11 months.
• The most utilized ambulance incurred a minimal financial loss of US $13.50 in its first year.
• Key success factors included upfront support, a systematic approach, and program appropriateness.

Conclusions:

• The implemented prehospital EMS system proved successful in terms of operational utility and financial stability.
• The Jaffna EMS system's development offers a potential model for other low- and middle-income countries.
• Factors beyond the system's direct operations were integral to its successful development and sustainability.