RESPONSE TIME IN EMERGENCY SERVICES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Response time in emergency services is a critical performance metric that significantly impacts patient outcomes, particularly in time-sensitive emergencies such as cardiac arrests and trauma. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on response times, focusing on their definition, components, historical evolution, and impact on survival rates. Response time encompasses the interval from emergency call receipt to the arrival of qualified personnel at the scene, with sub-components including dispatch, travel, and on-scene times. While response time standards vary globally, the 8-minute benchmark is widely recognized as a threshold associated with improved survival. Retrospective and cohort studies consistently demonstrate that shorter response times correlate with higher survival rates and favorable neurological outcomes. However, the review highlights that response time is not the sole determinant of patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of balancing speed with clinical effectiveness. The study also identifies key factors influencing response times, such as traffic conditions, resource allocation, technological advancements, and dispatcher efficiency. Strategies to improve response times include leveraging technological innovations, optimizing resource deployment, enhancing infrastructure, and engaging communities. Recent advances in drone delivery and artificial intelligence-assisted dispatch show promise in reducing delays. Future research should focus on refining these technologies, developing comprehensive performance metrics, and conducting long-term, large-scale studies to inform evidence-based policies for strengthening emergency care systems worldwide.