Changes in the epidemiological characteristics of prehospital emergency services before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Chengdu, 2016–2021

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) brought a healthy crisis all around the world. It’s not only affected healthcare utilization, but also some disease’s incidence. We collected pre-hospital emergency data in Chengdu from January 2016 to December 2021, and studied the demand for emergency medical services (EMSs), emergency response times (ERTs), and the disease spectrum in the city proper of Chengdu as a whole. A total of 1,122,294 prehospital emergency medical service (EMS) instances met the inclusion criteria. Under the influence of COVID-19, notably in 2020, the epidemiological characteristics of prehospital emergency services in Chengdu were considerably altered. However, as the pandemic was brought under control, they returned to normal or even earlier in 2021.The COVID-19 pandemic had an effect on people's medical care-seeking behavior and the performance of prehospital emergency services. Although the indicators associated with prehospital emergency services eventually recovered as the epidemic was brought under control, they remained marginally different from before the outbreak.

Integration of Epidemiologic, Socioeconomic, and Sociodemographic Indicators to Predict Early COVID-19 In-Hospital Outcomes

“…Importantly, while the COVID-19 pandemic may no longer be classified as a global pandemic, socioeconomic and demographic effects study remains crucial for effectively managing future crises or potential new pandemics [Zhang et al 2023]. The knowledge gained from investigating these indicators can enhance preparedness and response efforts, ensuring that healthcare systems are better equipped to address the challenges posed by future public health emergencies [Betthäuser et al 2023].…”