Emergency Medical Services Systems Development : Lessons Learned from the United States of America for Developing Countries

This publication contains guidance for policy-makers considering the development of a formal complex emergency medical services (EMS) system.

Drawing on the experience and history of models commonly found in the United States and in many European countries, it examines key aspects of the core elements of such systems, taking into account local needs.

It includes chapters on: historical and sociological perspectives from the US; public health policy and the development of EMS systems; system components; human resource requirements; access and communication issues; evaluation; command, control and organisation of emergency incidents; the EMS system's role in terrorism; leadership, medical control and quality assurance; hospital based triage; community involvement; data collection and management information systems; financing; service delivery and quality measurement.