Amsterdam University Medical Center, Ambulance Amsterdam, and KPN presented the first Spoedzorg Connect ambulance, featuring a live video connection to the Emergency Room. This initiative aims to enhance communication between ambulance teams and hospital staff during critical situations.
The system allows ER teams to observe patients in real time during transport, enabling better preparation and faster treatment upon arrival. This innovation could revolutionize emergency care by creating a seamless transition from ambulance to hospital, potentially saving crucial minutes in life-threatening scenarios. If successful, the project may be implemented nationwide, marking a significant advancement in Dutch emergency medical services.
Lotte Terwindt, a cardio-anesthesiologist at Amsterdam UMC and the initiator of Spoedzorg Connect, emphasizes the necessity for seamless teamwork among healthcare providers. In current practice, a clear division exists in the care chain, as the hospital team only gets a complete picture of the patient’s condition upon arrival.
Breaking the chain
The live video connection aims to bridge this gap, allowing the ambulance team to share real-time visuals with hospital staff during transportation. This capability ensures hospital teams can better prepare and take over treatment more swiftly. Furthermore, any changes in the patient’s condition en route are immediately communicated, providing all critical information to the hospital team through the video link. The improved handover process facilitated by Spoedzorg Connect could lead to faster decision-making and treatment.
The Spoedzorg Connect ambulance has three discreet cameras, a display screen, a microphone, and a speaker. These are all integrated into the KPN-developed Spoedzorg Connect platform, utilizing the 5G network to maintain a secure and robust connection. The solution adheres to the highest security standards, ensuring patient confidentiality while enabling this critical communication line between ambulance and hospital.
Pilot phase and future prospects
Beginning in early 2025, Ambulance Amsterdam stations in Purmerend and Hoofddorp will be the first to operate the Spoedzorg Connect ambulances. The trial period will allow for the optimization of the system, providing valuable insights into its efficacy and potential areas for improvement. If the pilot proves successful, there is potential for a nationwide rollout, which could transform the landscape of emergency medical care across the Netherlands.
Dave Bouman, an ambulance nurse with Ambulance Amsterdam, highlights the importance of synchronizing acute care teams. The high-pressure environment of emergency care requires swift actions and decisions. Having both ambulance and hospital teams sharing the same view of the patient’s condition can significantly enhance the quality and speed of care provided. This initiative is poised to set a new standard in emergency medical response, potentially saving lives by reducing the time between onset and treatment.
Related Posts
