The nordic and baltic EMS data - quality indicators and benchmarking 2025.

backgroundIn 2014 a prehospital emergency medical services (EMS) data co-operation began between the five Nordic countries, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. The Baltic State Estonia joined the group in 2020. The Nordic-Baltic EMS Network, that was formed to continue the project-based collaboration as a more permanent entity, has now published their 2025 report. This commentary aims to promote the report and its key results. MAIN BODY: The report describes the current population, healthcare organisation and EMS systems of each country. Similarities in the EMS systems was found between several of the countries, such as the use of electronic prehospital medical records, and variants of the Emergence Medical Coordination Centre decision support tool Norwegian Index for Emergency Medical Assistance. While many of the included countries have national quality indicators on EMS, a list of Nordic-Baltic EMS Quality and Benchmarking Indicators were defined. Availability of data for these quality indicators varied between each nation, yet it was possible to compare several. The quality indicators included timepoints on dispatch and response, bystander CPR and return of spontaneous circulation, incidents, missions, patients advised or referred over the phone, non-conveyed patients, hospitalised patients, and transport missions. There were discrepancies between the included countries, due to several issues. Data completeness, quality and interpretation is assessed as a major point. Others include legislation, access points for acute patients, such as general practitioners available out-of-hours, or other acute medical helplines. However, differences in general population and EMS patient population in terms of demography and disease pattern may also be present. These elements have not been analysed in depth in the current report and should be considered when interpreting and comparing the results. SHORT

conclusionDespite national differences, the Nordic-Baltic EMS Network report provide an overview of the EMS systems and quality indicators, enabling preliminary comparisons. The online report is intended to be updated on an annual basis when possible and has already led to the planning of a future indicators, project groups and research. Together this promotes international collaboration, and exchange of experiences.