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

The Culture of EMS

The misunderstanding within the EMS community of the importance of research is multi-factorial. EMS professionals often view research as an academic exercise with little applicability to patient care. EMS administrators have difficulty understanding the links between research and system operations. EMS education programs frequently do not emphasize the role of research in shaping EMS practices, perhaps because instructors themselves do not understand the significance of research. The general public and most policy makers have little understanding about the actual services provided by EMS agencies, and thus they are also unlikely to recognize the need for research to improve those services.

An organized effort on the part of EMS professionals, delivery systems, education centers and public policy makers is needed to take advantage of the available EMS research opportunities and to support research endeavors for the benefit of the public. Adoption of a new mindset must be followed by specific actions designed to encourage the integration of research into the framework of EMS. Providers must see practical applications of the concepts gleaned from field research. EMS administrators must support research if the use of evidence based decision making is to become integrated throughout the system. EMS educational programs must show students the need for collecting and analyzing data in order to provide a scientific basis for EMS patient care. Finally, regulatory agencies must encourage collaboration, use of technology for data capture, linkage with outcomes and analysis, and self-evaluation as means to improve EMS systems.