Nordic physician-staffed prehospital services - organisation and preparedness for major emergency surgical procedures

Prehospital physician-staffed units need to be prepared and have a strategy and guidelines for the treatment of unusual but life-threatening conditions. To perform major surgical procedures outside a hospital, guidelines, training, equipment, and experience are required. The study has demonstrated significant differences between Nordic countries and regions in how major surgical procedures outside the hospital are addressed. Many services lack standardised procedures and training. Addressing these gaps by implementing protocols and training programs may improve patient care. However, the potential benefits for a small number of patients should be weighed against the investment to have the ability to perform major surgical procedures outside the hospital.