What may occur during times of EMS system surge?

During times of EMS system surge, it is crucial to manage resources efficiently to ensure that patients receive the necessary care in a timely manner. This is where assigning patients to predetermined hospital destinations becomes essential.

The rationale behind this approach is to maximize the use of available hospital resources, reduce wait times, and streamline patient flow during high-demand periods, such as natural disasters, mass casualty incidents, or significant surges in 911 calls. Predefined destinations allow EMS personnel to quickly assess patient needs and direct them to the most appropriate facility based on factors such as proximity, hospital capacity, and the type of care required. This ensures that critical services are not overwhelmed and that patients receive the appropriate level of care as swiftly as possible.

In contrast, other options such as patients being taken to a facility of their preference or transported to their primary care physician would not be feasible during a surge, as they could lead to inefficiencies and delays in care. Similarly, the idea that no actions will change regarding patient transport overlooks the necessity for triaging and prioritizing patient destinations to maintain the effectiveness and reliability of the EMS system during high-pressure situations.