A Standardized Protocol for Medical Specimen Delivery by Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles in Multi-Campus Hospitals

Efficient transportation of medical specimens across multi-campus hospital networks is frequently hindered by urban traffic congestion and traditional vehicle delays. This protocol outlines a comprehensive methodology for establishing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based medical logistics system to achieve rapid, safe, and cost-effective specimen delivery. The procedure details the end-to-end implementation framework, beginning with quantitative demand assessment and strategic partnership modeling. Subsequent critical steps include flight route planning, regulatory airspace approval, UAV model selection, base station construction, and standardized personnel training. Furthermore, the protocol covers essential trial operations and the establishment of robust emergency response mechanisms prior to formal deployment. Application of this protocol at a tertiary hospital successfully established a three-campus UAV network. Representative results demonstrate that this method reduced average transport time by nearly two-thirds and decreased operational costs by 62%, while maintaining a 100% specimen integrity rate. By providing a multidimensional analysis of technical, operational, and managerial procedures, this standardized framework enables other healthcare institutions to seamlessly replicate and scale low-altitude smart medical logistics networks in complex urban environments.