Older Adult Frequent 9-1-1 Callers for Emergency Medical Services in a Large Metropolitan City: Individual- and System-Level Considerations.

ABSTRACT:

Background

High utilizers of 9-1-1 place a substantial burden on emergency medical services (EMS). Results of a retrospective review of records data of the City of Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) showed a significant increase in older adult high utilizers of 9-1-1.

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore individual- and system-level factors implicated in EMS use among older adults, and to provide system recommendations to mitigate overuse.

Methods

A phenomenological study was conducted, drawing from LAFD EMS records between 2012 and 2016 to identify and contact high-utilizing patients older than 50 years, their family, agency representatives, and LAFD personnel. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded and a thematic analysis was completed.

SUBMITTER: Martinez B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10871157 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature