Protocol on testing the USMC telemedicine module as part of a pilot project, Bulgaria, 2024

This technical report presents the results of a pilot study evaluating the USMC, a telemedicine module designed for automated pre-shift and post-shift health screening of professional drivers. The pilot was conducted at the “Malashevtsi” depot of Stolichen Avtotransport EAD (Sofia, Bulgaria) between April and August 2024. 

The module was located in the office of the staff physician, and throughout the pilot study, measurements were taken in a controlled environment.

The study assessed the system’s capability to measure key vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature), detect alcohol presence, and identify potential drug impairment. A total of 214 unique drivers completed 872 automated medical examinations, with an average examination time of 2 minutes 14 seconds. The system identified disrupted cardiovascular parameters in 75% of non-admitted cases and detected arrhythmia-related irregularities in 15% of drivers. One case of alcohol misuse was registered.

The pilot demonstrated that a single USMC module can screen up to 100 drivers per 12-hour shift, supporting digitalization of occupational health workflows and improving the early detection of medical risks in high-responsibility transport operations. The report includes project chronology, performance metrics, system configuration, and technical characteristics of the USMC module, confirming readiness for large-scale deployment.