Survey of the situation of the prehospital emergency medical services system in Iran

Comprehensive Summary

Abandansari et al. assessed the current state of prehospital emergency medical services (EMS) in Iran in 2023. Using a qualitative approach, investigators conducted semi-structured interviews with 38 experts, managers, and service providers. Inclusion criteria included interest in study participation and having experience in prehospital emergency settings. Interviews explored eight domains: policies and regulations, human resource management, infrastructure, public education, stakeholder coordination, service delivery processes, organizational responsibility, and service delivery models. The analysis identified multiple system deficiencies including inadequate staffing, poor coordination between EMS and hospitals, and outdated equipment. The researchers recommend several system improvements: restructuring Ministry of Health and university oversight roles, implementing hybrid public-private service delivery models, and expanding involvement of hospitals, municipalities, and private sector organizations in prehospital emergency care delivery.

Outcomes and Implications

This study provides important insight into systemic deficiencies in Iran's prehospital emergency medical services (EMS), which is particularly relevant given the country's high burden of trauma from traffic accidents and other emergencies. Iran has one of the world's highest rates of traffic fatalities, making effective prehospital care critical for reducing preventable deaths and disability. However, the study identifies substantial gaps across multiple domains including infrastructure, staffing, coordination, and service delivery models that likely compromise care quality.