Measuring the Effectiveness of Emergency Medical Team Deployments in Disaster Response: A Data-Driven Approach

Introduction: As natural and man-made disasters increase in frequency and intensity, the demand for effective disaster response challenges healthcare systems globally. The deployment of Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) and their field hospitals, classified by the World Health Organization, is essential. EMTs provide life-saving care and are vital components of the global health workforce. While they alleviate the burden on overwhelmed healthcare systems, EMT field hospitals face significant physical and logistical challenges due to limited resources, leading to inefficiencies. Currently, there is no standard evaluation for EMT deployments. This research aims to establish and validate a framework for assessing EMT effectiveness in disaster scenarios to address deficiencies and improve preparedness. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used to construct the tool. Initial Key Performance Indicator (KPI) domains were derived from a literature review and refined through 20 expert interviews and a modified Delphi process. KPI domains meeting a ≥75% consensus threshold were included. The finalized tool, composed of six KPI domains, was developed into a digital application with real-time dashboard functionality. The tool was piloted in a full-scale simulation of a Type-1 mobile EMT deployment responding to a simulated outbreak. Results: Six validated KPI domains formed the tool’s core: Deployment & Operational Readiness, Clinical Service Delivery, Needs & Capacity Assessment, Staffing & Human Resources, Equipment & Logistics, and Coordination & Communication. The pilot yielded a high overall performance score (4.52/5), with the highest ratings in deployment readiness and clinical services. Perceived elements (e.g., safety, teamwork, well-being) correlated strongly with perceived effectiveness but showed a statistically significant gap when compared to objective performance scores (p < 0.05). Qualitative feedback highlighted the tool’s utility but raised concerns about the data collection burden during real-time deployment. Conclusion: The development of the proposed framework will mark a substantial advancement in ensuring that field hospitals not only function with maximum efficiency and effectiveness but also incorporate evidence-based practices in diverse disaster responses for shaping future preparedness and improving healthcare system adaptability during crises. In future research, a case-control interventional study will be conducted with WHO-classified field hospital teams across the European region to validate the tool further.