[Central in-hospital emergency coordinator. Concept to optimize the interface between emergency medical services and hospitals]

Abstract

Background: Although the prognosis of many diseases relies on timely diagnosis and treatment, the admission process of patients taken into hospitals by emergency medical services (EMS) is often affected by delays or rejection of patients. A smooth interaction between these two phases is critical for the prognosis in time-critical situations. The implementation of an in-hospital coordinating emergency physician (ZINK) responsible for the admission of EMS patients, a concept which was developed and introduced in our hospital, is suggested.

Concept: The ZINK represented by the most senior anaesthesiologist on duty is responsible for the registration of emergency patients from all departments under one telephone number, decides on admittance, alerts necessary resources and documents inquiries.

Results: After an initial three calls the ZINK is currently contacted on average 8 times per day and experiences the satisfaction of EMS personnel and EMS dispatch centers. The number of rejected emergency patients has decreased by over 80%.

Conclusion: Implementation of a ZINK can optimize the process of hospital admission in emergency patients. This can decrease the legal risk of hospitals and improve the external representation. Hospitals should consider designating a ZINK.