An analysis of characteristics and associated factors for re-contacts after EMS non-conveyance: a retrospective cohort study in the Netherlands

A low overall incidence of EMS re-contacts indicates that non-conveyance within the EMS system is relatively safe. The likelihood of re-contact is higher for age above 65, male gender, and medical complaints within the specialisms of 'Pulmonology' and 'Neurology'. Non-conveyance cases that involve consultation or handover to a GP and cases occurring at night are also more likely to have a re-contact. The findings inform non-conveyance decision-making, and could serve as a starting point to adapt EMS curricula, and develop guidelines and protocols. This may fuel the enhancement of non-conveyance decision-making, thereby improving the quality of healthcare within the EMS system.