CONTINUITY OF FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Continuity between first aid (FA) and emergency medical services (EMS) is a critical determinant of survival in life-threatening conditions. A persistent disparity between the population’s theoretical training and their actual readiness to carry out first aid remains a significant challenge in prehospital conditions.

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of a synchronized “training – dispatcher assistance – legal protection” model in ensuring the continuity of FA and EMS at the prehospital stage.

Materials and Methods. The study (2023–2025) is based on a systems analysis of the normative and legal documents of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, alongside an assessment of the Belgorod Regional Emergency Medical Station’s operational data. A survey (n = 2004) and statistical analysis of EMS performance indicators were conducted.

Results. A statistically significant divergence between respondents’ subjective confidence in their knowledge (93.5 %) and their actual readiness to provide FA (16.4 %) was revealed. It was demonstrated that the implementation of a model integrating mass training (over 42,000 individuals), structured dispatcher-assisted first aid (with coverage increasing from 39 % to 96 % over 15 months), and legal regulation of bystanders՚ actions ensured the initiation of life-saving measures in 90.2 % of cases. The frequency of unmotivated refusals to provide FA decreased by a factor of 15.3.

Conclusion. Methodological and communicative synchronization within the “training – dispatcher assistance – legal protection” system is a prerequisite for ensuring continuity of care. The proposed model aligns with the 2025 international guidelines (ERC, AHA, ILCOR) and is highly applicable for integration into the national healthcare system of the Republic of Belarus.

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