A model development for ambulance safety management and service efficiency in Emergency Medical Services

Abstract

This study aimed to develop ambulance safety management system through the utilization of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and to promote driver’s safe driving behaviors. The research and development endeavor were delineated into four phases: Phase 1 knowledge synthesis and integration, Phase 2 system design and improvement, Phase 3 GPS Technology and Emergency Medical Services Management System in Lamphun and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, and Phase 4 monitoring, evaluating, and collecting data evaluation. Quantitative data were achieved by using questionnaires and data reports during May and June 2022, while qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders. Quantitative data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and independent paired t-test, however; content analysis was also selected for qualitative data analysis. Therefore, the design of the so-called “Safety Information System (SIS),” with a focus on enhancing the safety and efficiency of emergency medical services for ambulances, comprised 12 criteria serving as pivotal elements for implementing ambulance safety measures. Additionally, it provided supplementary data to improve ambulance fleet management and enhance time efficiency. This system can seamlessly integrate operation control / dispatch centers, mobile applications, and data centers. Installation of GPS devices and systems in 40 medical service vehicles was conducted. Furthermore, emergency vehicle operation training courses were executed. After implementing the project, it was revealed some misunderstandings among drivers regarding the use of GPS and safe driving, along with various unsafe driving behaviors caused to the accidents. The system design, characterized by its comprehensiveness, offers operational support and unsafe driving behavior notification and is also planned to integrate with digital emergency medical platforms. Hence, it is recommended to encourage provincial authorities to consider adopting this model as part of their action plans to elevate emergency medical service quality standards, promoting safety measures, fostering public relation of giving way to an ambulance, providing safety data system including reporting ambulance accidents.