Barriers To Accessing Emergency Medical Services In Remote Regions: A Red Crescent Case Study

Abstract

The access to emergency services remains a challenge to this date in areas that have been either remote or rural across the world. This study investigates barriers to accessing EMS through a detailed, mixed-methods case study of Red Crescent operations in underserved areas, either by surveys, interviews, or analysis of operational data. These include geographical isolation, infrastructural deficits, resource limitations, and socio-cultural factors. Response times in remote areas are 300-400% higher compared with urban benchmarks, and this has considerable implications for patient outcomes. The key recommendations emanating from this study are evidence-based and go a long way in aiding the improvement of access to emergency medical care in challenging terrains.