Lights, sirens, and computers: how pen-based computing is changing the way emergency care is conducted and communicated

Mobile electronic data collection devices have changed the way emergency medical service (EMS) professionals care for patients and document their actions. In response to problems with paper-based documentation, many EMS agencies have increased the level of patient care they deliver while increasing revenues by using pen-based computers. Using pen-based computers in the field, EMS personnel document care, assess patient records, review treatment protocols, connect to diagnostic equipment, and link to a wide-area communication network. Using such technology, EMS is also in the process of creating uniform databases ideal for researching prehospital care practices and patient outcomes. Going paperless, thus, has enabled the EMS profession to gain recognition and autonomy on a par with other health care professions.