Index
Abstract
Dedication
Preface
Definition of EMS for this Document
Federal Agencies Can Help Advance EMS Research
Executive Summary

• Develop Researchers
• Facilitate Collaboration
• Establish a Reliable Funding Stream
• Establish Alternative Funding Sources
• Recognize The Need for EMS Research
• View Research as Necessary for the Improvement of Patient Care
• Create Reliable Information Systems
• Enhance Ethical Approaches to Research
• Conclusion

Introduction
History of EMS Research
The Present State of EMS Research
Overcoming the Barriers to EMS Research
Summary
Appendix A: The National EMS Research Agenda Writing Team
Appendix B: Organizations Invited to Participate in the National Review Team
Appendix C: Ethical Standards and IRB Requirements
Appendix D Inclusion Of Women And Minorities In Research Study Populations Involving Human Subjects
Inclusion Of Children As Participants In Research Involving Human Subjects
Appendix E: Bibliographic List of Internet Links
Appendix F: Published EMS Randomized Clinical Trials
References

Create Reliable Information Systems

EMS care delivery is unusual in that the patients are only under EMS care for a short time and may not be known by name. The lack of accurate patient identification presents a major challenge for the investigator wishing to measure outcomes. In addition because of the fragmented nature of the EMS delivery system, a given EMS agency may care for only a limited number of critically ill patients annually. Thus, the use of standardized data collection, data linkage, and reporting mechanisms are critical to allow patient outcomes to be compiled and meaningfully evaluated.

Recommendation 7.

There should be standardized data collection methods at local, regional, state, and national levels. These data must be devoid of information that allows individual patient identification. All EMS provider agencies should adopt the Uniform Prehospital Data Elements for data collection.

·         NHTSA should sponsor a process to revise the Uniform Prehospital Data Elements at least every ten years.

·         State lead EMS agencies should require all EMS organizations in their jurisdictions to collect and submit to the state the Uniform Prehospital Data Elements at a minimum, and states should report that information to a national EMS data repository.

·         Federal agencies should promote the development and maintenance of a national EMS data repository to facilitate comparison of EMS system designs on the effectiveness of care delivery and improving patient safety.