Mapping pre-hospital research presented at UK conferences between 2010 and 2023: a bibliometric study

Area of Science:

• Pre-hospital care research
• Paramedic professional development
• Ambulance service innovation

Background:

• The paramedic profession is expanding, with increased publications and conference presentations.
• Conference presentations offer unique insights into current research and professional interests.
• This study analyzes material presented at UK paramedic-related conferences from 2010-2023.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document and describe the content of presentations at major UK paramedic conferences.
• To identify key themes, methodologies, and institutions represented in paramedic research.
• To provide a bibliometric overview of knowledge dissemination within the UK paramedic profession.

Main Methods:

• A bibliometric study of presentations from relevant UK paramedic conferences (2010-2023).
• Selection of six major conferences based on predefined criteria.
• Data extraction using standardized forms, focusing on presentations and presenters.

Main Results:

• Analysis of 690 presentations from 43 conferences, given by 551 presenters.
• Paramedics were the most frequent presenters, with London Ambulance Service, North East Ambulance Service, and University of Sheffield being prominent institutions.
• Common topics included policy and practice, research, and trauma, with qualitative methodologies being most prevalent.

Conclusions:

• The study offers a comprehensive overview of research presented at UK paramedic, ambulance service, and pre-hospital care conferences.
• A diverse range of research topics was presented, with significant focus on high-impact clinical areas like cardiac arrest and major trauma.
• The findings highlight the breadth of research activity and knowledge dissemination within the paramedic profession.