Innovative technology for the future´s emergency medical care

Purpose and goal

The overarching aim of the project was to develop innovative technical solutions for more effective and better prehospital care. By means of real-time videotransmission and exchange of clinical data between the field, the patient’s home and the hospital, we strived to reduce workload at the ER unit, increase the availability of ambulance vehicles and to ensure well prepared ER-teams. Based on a comprehensive analysis (e.g. by structured interviews) of the field as well as clinical needs, the project devloped and evaluated solutions for the use of streamed video in prehospital care.

Expected results and effects

The project worked in close cooperation between healthcare, academia and industry to develop prototypes stable enough for evaluation in clinical practice. Two of the sub-projects initiated clinical evaluations, albeit in smaller scale. We were able to demonstrate that streaming video is a viable option to use and, in the experience of the involved personnel, provides added value. Moreover, the project evaluated alternative technical approaches and explored in a master-thesis at Lund University health-economic aspects of the use of streaming video in prehospital stroke-care.

Planned approach and implementation

Based on a comprehensive analysis of the field as well as clinical needs, the project devloped and evaluated solutions for the use of streamed video in prehospital care. An iterative (agile) phase combined technical development with benefit/risk assessment. During this phase, the project handled technical issues in parallell with often complex regulatory challenges (e.g. PDL, PUL, approvals, ISO 14485, and other). This work allowed for robust and complete solutions that were suitable for evaluation in a realistic environment.