Policy Review and Analysis of Management Standards in Emergency Medical Practices

Abstract

Thailand had a continuous upward trend of approximately 1.6 million patients receiving care from emergency medical services (EMS) annually. However, there was limited data on the analysis of prehospital care standards and quality assurance. Literature reviews and consultations with stakeholders in the EMS system serve as fundamental information to establish the operational standards for EMS in Thailand. The objective of this study were to survey and analyze the operational standards for Thai EMS and develop the information technology (IT) system for prehospital data registry in Thailand, and to assess and evaluate the prototyped data dictionary of IT system for the EMS, ensuring alignment with the operational standards for EMS in collaboration with stakeholders in the Thai EMS system. For the methodology, the researchers conducted a narrative literature review on standardized prehospital data registries used in Thailand and abroad, the results were then used to synthesize the prototyped data dictionary of IT system for EMS in Thailand. Once the data dictionary was drafted, the researchers organized focus group meetings with experts in emergency medicine, EMS policymakers, and representatives from the EMS workforce. Aiming to assess the operational standards for EMS in Thailand and gather suggestions on the prototyped data dictionary of IT system for EMS in Thailand. The responses from stakeholders were then analyzed and summarized to provide insights for further development of the IT system for EMS in Thailand. Results: This study revealed that comprehensive data recording to assess performance and determine relevant key performance indicators, with the integration of IT systems into the EMS system, was identified as a potential opportunity to enhance the operational standards for EMS in Thailand. The responses from stakeholders were consistent among three groups, highlighting the importance of thorough and accurate data recording, as well as the adoption of IT systems to support emergency medical operations. The stakeholders suggested that the IT system should be able to continuously develop along with new technologies and evolving emergency medical standards. Additionally, the system should be able to adapt to diverse operational practices and environments across different regions in the country. Most of the stakeholders agreed with the prototyped data dictionary of IT system for EMS in Thailand, with approval rates for all aspects ranging from 78.6% to 100%. For certain aspects with disagreements, the stake holders provided minor suggestions for further adjustments to the data dictionary. However, there were no strong objections to using the proposed data dictionary for the EMS system in Thailand. Conclusion: Comprehensive data recording and using accessible and adaptable IT systems identified as potential operational standards enhancement. The prototyped data dictionary of IT system for EMS in Thailand was accepted by the stakeholders and was considered practical for implementation.