Out-of-hospital emergency medical services (OHEMS) play a critical role in safeguarding public health by ensuring rapid and effective responses to acute health threats, ranging from accidents and sudden illnesses to disasters and mass casualty events. Traditionally, OHEMS represent the first contact point for emergency medical care, bridging the gap between community needs and definitive in-hospital treatment. While their core mission is to preserve life and prevent disability, these systems are continuously evolving in response to changes in technology, population health, and global challenges.

Despite the existence of two major models—the Anglo-American and Franco-German approaches—OHEMS delivery is highly variable, reflecting regional differences in infrastructure, healthcare priorities, and legal frameworks. Moreover, the growing complexity of patient presentations, combined with novel threats such as pandemics, terrorism, and aging populations, highlights the urgent need to adapt OHEMS systems to a shifting landscape.

This Research Topic seeks to bring together multidisciplinary research that advances our understanding of how OHEMS can be optimized to meet contemporary challenges. Specifically, it aims to explore ways to improve system design, workforce capacity, integration with public health priorities, and the adoption of emerging technologies. By engaging with these areas, the research will help inform best practices, support the resilience of emergency care systems, and ultimately advance health outcomes for populations in crisis.

To deepen knowledge and improve practice in this vital field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

OHEMS organization and delivery models across countries and regions: strengths, limitations, and opportunities for adaptation

Workforce development in OHEMS: professional training, competencies, and continuing education for both basic and advanced life support providers, integration and using IT systems to obtain feedback on the results of diagnosis and treatment of patients at subsequent stages of care for the purpose of professional development

Advances in emergency communication and dispatch: optimizing prehospital response through technology and system integration

The role of OHEMS in public health preparedness and resilience: system integration, health equity, and response to mass casualty incidents or pandemics

Epidemiological patterns of OHEMS interventions: trends in emergency calls, patient demographics, and clinical presentations

Innovations in prehospital emergency care: clinical protocols, telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and digital decision-support tools

By addressing these themes, this Research Topic will foster cross-sector learning and contribute to the ongoing evolution and strengthening of out-of-hospital emergency medical services worldwide.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Modern Out-of-Hospital Emergency Medical Services: Organization, Function, Challenges, and Future Directions

Topic Coordinator