THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN IMPROVING PATIENT OUTCOMES IN PREHOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

This systematic review investigates the pivotal role of technology in enhancing patient outcomes in prehospital emergency care, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Rwanda. Emergency medical services (EMS) face significant challenges, including inefficient communication systems, inadequate triage processes, and difficulties in locating emergencies, which hinder timely and effective care. This review emphasizes the potential of integrating information technology and mobile health (mHealth) solutions to address these challenges and improve EMS operations. Various technological interventions, including telemedicine, mobile applications, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), and advanced medical monitoring devices, are critically analyzed for their impact on patient assessment, decision-making, and overall quality of care. Furthermore, the review highlights existing gaps in the literature, particularly regarding the practical implementation of these technologies in diverse EMS settings. By identifying these gaps, the review advocates for further research to optimize the integration of technology into emergency medical services, thereby improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall effectiveness of prehospital care.

Keywords: Technology, Prehospital Emergency Care, Patient Outcomes, Mobile Health, Emergency Medical Services.