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Microcomputer-assisted transmission of disaster data by cellular telephone
H N Wigder1, D J Fligner, D Rivers
1Emergency Department, Christ Hospital and Medical Center, Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|November 1, 1989
Summary
This study shows that microcomputer-assisted communication (MAC) networks can improve disaster response by enabling faster, more accurate data transmission than voice calls. This technology enhances communication between disaster sites and hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Health Informatics
- Disaster Management
Background:
- Voice communication during disasters is often unreliable due to network congestion and interference.
- Simultaneous voice transmissions can lead to blocked calls and critical miscommunications.
- Non-voice data transmission offers a potentially faster and more accurate alternative for information sharing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of a microcomputer-assisted communication (MAC) network for disaster response.
- To test the effectiveness of transmitting patient data from a disaster scene to a command hospital.
- To explore the potential of non-voice data transmission in emergency situations.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study was conducted using a microcomputer-assisted communication (MAC) network.
- Cellular telephones connected to microcomputers via modems were used for data transmission.
- Commercially available software (Lotus Symphony) facilitated data entry, transmission, and reporting.
- Patient data (age, sex, injury severity, ID, injuries, destination) were transmitted from the field to the command hospital.
Main Results:
- Successful transmission of critical patient data from the disaster site to the command hospital was achieved.
- The MAC network demonstrated the capability to handle typed communications between operators.
- The system facilitated data entry, transmission, and report generation efficiently.
- The pilot test confirmed the potential for MAC in improving disaster communication.
Conclusions:
- Microcomputer-assisted communication (MAC) networks show significant potential for enhancing disaster response.
- Non-voice data transmission via MAC networks can overcome limitations of traditional voice communication.
- This technology facilitates accurate and timely patient data transfer, improving coordination between field and hospital teams.