In collaboration with Singapore-based health technology provider Mediwave, Sri Lanka has introduced an innovative AI-powered ambulance connected to its national emergency ambulance service, 1990 Suwa Seriya. This groundbreaking development aims to revolutionize emergency healthcare by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and mixed reality.
Revolutionizing emergency healthcare
In a significant step towards enhancing emergency healthcare services, Sri Lanka’s national emergency ambulance service, 1990 Suwa Seriya, has joined forces with Mediwave, a renowned health technology provider from Singapore. Together, they have unveiled a state-of-the-art connected ambulance that leverages the power of AI and mixed reality to transform emergency response processes.
Mediwave’s emergency response suite
At the core of this transformation is Mediwave’s Emergency Response Suite, a comprehensive suite of emergency response solutions that brings digitization to the forefront of emergency service processes. This suite incorporates various innovative features, including an AI-powered speech-to-text transcriber for seamlessly creating patients’ electronic health records.
Moreover, it introduces the concept of remote care by harnessing the capabilities of the Microsoft HoloLens for augmented reality (AR) and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). Mediwave has already introduced these groundbreaking solutions in Malaysia, marking a significant advancement in healthcare technology.
Revolutionary training and response times
As part of this collaborative effort, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) associated with 1990 Suwa Seriya underwent rigorous AR simulation training provided by Mediwave. This training empowered them to connect virtually with physicians at the emergency command and control center. It enabled them to monitor vital signs and administer specialized care to patients even before reaching the hospital.
Remarkably, the results speak for themselves. According to data provided by Mediwave, the EMTs achieved an impressive response time of just 11 minutes and 38 seconds. This achievement surpasses the standards set by some developed countries, including the World Health Organization’s ideal response time of less than eight minutes, the United States’ law mandating response times of 10 minutes in urban areas and 30 minutes in rural areas, and London’s regulation of a 14-10 minute standard for 95% of emergency requests.
It’s worth noting that not all cities and countries have established specific response time standards. A literature review indicates that Asia, as a continent, boasts the fastest median emergency response time among major continents, at just seven minutes.
The health minister’s perspective
Sri Lanka’s Health Minister, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, expressed his thoughts on the launch of the connected ambulance, saying, “Our national emergency ambulance service operates a fleet of 322 ambulances. Our commitment extends to expanding this service further with life-enhancing technology to make emergency healthcare accessible.”
This collaboration between Sri Lanka and Mediwave represents a groundbreaking advancement in emergency healthcare. By seamlessly integrating AI, mixed reality, and remote care technologies, they have improved response times and ushered in a new era of patient care.
Looking ahead
The introduction of the AI-powered connected ambulance is a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in emergency healthcare services. It underscores the importance of harnessing cutting-edge technologies to save lives and provide swift, efficient, and specialized care to those in need.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges posed by emergency healthcare, collaborations like the one between Sri Lanka and Mediwave serve as a shining example of how technology can be harnessed for the greater good. The impact of this innovative approach to emergency response is bound to resonate far beyond national borders, inspiring other nations to explore similar avenues for improving their healthcare infrastructure.
The connected ambulance powered by AI and mixed reality represents a remarkable leap forward in emergency healthcare. With its potential to save lives and reduce response times, it sets a new standard for the industry and promises to transform how nations approach emergency medical services. This collaboration between Sri Lanka and Mediwave serves as a beacon of hope and progress, showcasing the boundless possibilities that arise when technology and healthcare converge to pursue a healthier, safer world.
