Out-of-hospital emergency medical services in Poland: organization, challenges, and modern solutions

Emergency medical services systems are designed to provide medical aid in the event of sudden illness or injury. Each system comprises two parts, namely the out-of-hospital emergency medical services (OHEMS) and the in-hospital emergency medical services (IHEMS). The out-of-hospital component involves receiving emergency calls and providing medical services at the scene of an incident. The Polish OHEMS is mainly based on the Anglo-American model, with noticeable elements of the French-German model. Its fundamental principle is to aid any person who has found themselves in a state of sudden health emergency, which is one of the key responsibilities of the state. The organisational structure of the Polish system is multidimensional and linked to the administrative division of Poland. Its supervision, organisation and operation are the responsibility of the Minister of Health and regional governors. An emergency notification system has been established to handle emergency calls, where emergency medical dispatchers are responsible for responding to medical incidents. At the scene of an incident, medical aid is provided by emergency medical teams, including specialist, basic, motorcycle and airborne teams. Their personnel consist of system doctors, system nurses and paramedics. These teams operate within entities whose main shareholder is the State Treasury or a local government unit. A nationwide uniform ICT system supports the activities of emergency medical dispatchers and teams. The Polish OHEMS has numerous strengths, but is nevertheless subject to constant change due to the need to adapt to current needs and evolving conditions. At the same time, its role and effectiveness are highly valued by Polish society.