Author: Lauren Cantley
AI has made a serious mark on the world once Chat GPT was announced near the end of 2022. Ever since becoming a hot topic, its popularity has only grown. However, there is more to AI than using it to dictate text or summarize literature. The article “Investigating Use Cases for AI & IT Tools in Emergency Medical Services” by Shania Kennedy explores the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology (IT) in improving emergency medical services (EMS). Kennedy highlights several key areas where these technologies can have a significant impact.
The article’s section on “Developing Machine Learning to Flag Cardiac Events” discusses the application of machine learning (ML) in identifying and flagging cardiac events during emergency EMS responses. Cardiac events are time-sensitive and require a rapid and accurate diagnosis to improve patient outcomes. ML algorithms can be trained using historical patient data to recognize patterns and indicators associated with cardiac events. By analyzing electrocardiogram (ECG) data, vital signs, and other relevant patient information, these algorithms can assist EMS personnel in quickly identifying potential cardiac events in the field.
The section “Leveraging IT Support For Faster EMS Response” discusses the challenges faced by first responders when utilizing mobile incident alert and management software. Thomas Craighton, the coordinator of the Hardin County, Iowa Emergency Management Agency, points out that while these technologies are essential, relying on cellular networks can be problematic due to potential failure points. Cellular networks combined with an end-to-end emergency response system like IamResponding provide valuable location information to first responders, enabling them to navigate to the incident scene more efficiently. Another challenge an end-to-end emergency response system addresses is the issue of coordinating volunteer-based staff, allowing EMS team members to indicate their response status, facilitating quicker assessments of available personnel.
In conclusion, AI and IT tools hold immense promise in revolutionizing emergency medical services, as long as there are regular checks and balances on system performance. From decision support systems to improved data sharing and predictive analytics, these technologies have the potential to enhance patient care, optimize resource allocation, and make EMS operations more efficient and effective, allowing first responders to focus more of their attention on saving lives.
If you need further proof that AI belongs in the workplace, our team utilized AI to craft this blog post prior to extensive editing to ensure accuracy. AI should always be managed for precision, but it is imperative to acknowledge its positive effects on efficiency and its capability to help EMS personnel save lives.
