Philippine Emergency Medical Services: A Medical Student’s Perspective

Abstract

The Philippine Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has evolved greatly from the time of its establishment. One of the recent changes in the EMS is the establishment of a nationwide emergency hotline. However, the Philippine EMS continue to face different problems such as overcrowded hospital, lack of sufficient facilities, referral system and regulated ambulance system and paramedic profession. Strategies that can help resolve these issues include updating local EMS data through research, unifying national and local EMS program through standardization and patient education.