Abstract
The use of drones emerges as a promising technological avenue for improving patient survival, outcomes, and overall quality of life, particularly in areas that are remote or face financial and infrastructural challenges. Their cost-effectiveness, swiftness, and expediency, especially when contrasted with ground transportation, make them extremely pertinent in the field of emergency medicine. Ongoing research underscores the practicality of incorporating drones into emergency medical situations, underscoring public approval, cost-effectiveness, and a multitude of potential applications.
TopIntroduction
Over the past decade, the utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as “drones,” has grown significantly (Prisacariu., 2017). This expansion is attributed to advancements in their technology, leading to increased sophistication, coupled with a decline in costs (Gupta et al., 2013). Drones are now regularly employed in various sectors such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, public safety, commercial delivery, recreation, and more (Vacek., 2017) (Barua et al., 2024). Although their integration into health-related domains is a relatively recent development, it is gaining wider acceptance and exploration (Balasingam., 2017) (Al-Wathinani et al., 2023).
The term “drone” gained popularity in the public lexicon due to its association with the distinctive sound of early military unmanned target aircraft, resembling that of a male bee (Johnson et al., 2021). Despite its widespread usage, the aviation industry and government regulators have opposed this term. In the 1980s, the term “unmanned aerial vehicle” (UAV) emerged to describe autonomous or remotely controlled aerial vehicles, distinguishing them from other systems like ballistic vehicles and gliders (Braun et al., 2019). Figure 1 shows the market size drone. The more widely accepted term in professional circles is “unmanned aerial systems” (UAS), encompassing one or more UAVs with a data terminal, sensory array, and electronic data link. Alternative terms for drones include “remotely piloted vehicle” (RPV) and “remotely piloted aircraft system” (RPAS), with RPAS being the more formal and globally accepted term. For simplicity, this article will use the term “drone” (Vacek., 2017).
Figure 1. The market size of medical drones
Drones typically comprise an air frame, propulsion system, and navigation system, with diverse design configurations and supporting tools for various applications (Al-Wathinani et al., 2023). While drone technology is not new, it has recently found practical use in conventional business scenarios, offering a more economical, quicker, and efficient alternative to full-size aircraft (Balasingam., 2017) (Barua et al., 2024). Advancements in microminiaturization and the widespread production of key technologies, such as processors, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors (Barua et al., 2018), and batteries used in smart devices, have enhanced drone capabilities, making them more affordable and accessible (Vacek., 2017) (Barua et al., 2024) (Jain et al., 2024). The potential applications of drone technology in emergency medicine are particularly promising, given the imperative for swift responses to enhance patient outcomes (Rosser et al., 2018). This chapter aims to elucidate some of the primary current and expanding uses of drone technology in emergency medicine, while also highlighting the associated challenges and future opportunities.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Drone: Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed for various tasks without a human pilot on board. Ranging from small recreational quadcopters to sophisticated military UAVs, drones use onboard technology like cameras and sensors for applications such as surveillance, photography, delivery, and research. They offer versatile and often cost-effective solutions.
Telemedicine: Telemedicine utilizes technology to provide remote healthcare services, enabling consultations, diagnosis, and treatment via audio, video, or online platforms. Bridging geographical distances, telemedicine enhances access to medical expertise, consultations, and monitoring, promoting convenient and timely healthcare delivery, especially in situations where in-person visits may be challenging or impractical.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV): Commonly known as drones, are autonomous or remotely operated aircraft without a human pilot on board. Used for diverse applications, from surveillance and data collection to delivery and recreational activities, UAVs are equipped with sensors and technology for various tasks, offering cost-effective and efficient solutions.
Medical Services: Medical services encompass a broad range of healthcare provisions, including preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative care. Delivered by healthcare professionals and institutions, these services aim to promote and maintain health, diagnose and treat illnesses, and enhance overall well-being, contributing to the holistic care and support of individuals and communities.
Emergency Medicine: Emergency Medicine focuses on immediate and critical care for acutely ill or injured patients. Emergency physicians rapidly diagnose and treat conditions in emergency departments, handling diverse cases from trauma to medical crises. This specialty emphasizes quick decision-making, resuscitation, and stabilization to ensure optimal outcomes in urgent and life-threatening situations.