Optimizing EMS Systems for Pediatric, Obstetric, and Geriatric Emergencies: A Specialized Approach for Saudi Vision 2030

Abstract

Emergency medical services (EMS) play a critical role in providing timely and effective care for patients with life-threatening conditions, including pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric emergencies. In Saudi Arabia, the Vision 2030 strategic plan emphasizes the importance of improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, including EMS, and the need for a skilled and specialized workforce to meet the evolving needs of the population. This systematic review aims to explore the current state and challenges of EMS systems in Saudi Arabia in addressing pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric emergencies, and to propose recommendations for optimizing these systems in alignment with the Vision 2030 goals. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Saudi Digital Library, was conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2023. The search strategy employed a combination of keywords related to EMS, pediatric emergencies, obstetric emergencies, geriatric emergencies, and Saudi Arabia. A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The findings highlight the unique characteristics and challenges of pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric emergencies, and the need for specialized EMS protocols, equipment, and training to provide optimal care for these patient populations. Key factors influencing the quality and outcomes of EMS care for these emergencies include provider knowledge and skills, system resources and capabilities, and coordination with healthcare facilities. The review also identifies gaps and barriers to the development and implementation of specialized EMS systems for pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric emergencies in Saudi Arabia, such as limited data and research, inadequate funding and infrastructure, and workforce shortages and maldistribution. The findings of this review have significant implications for EMS practice, policy, and research in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for strategic initiatives to support the optimization of EMS systems for pediatric, obstetric, and geriatric emergencies, and to align these efforts with the Vision 2030 goals for improving population health and well-being.