Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are transforming various sectors, including logistics and healthcare. This paper investigates the potential of UAS for enhancing emergency medical response by facilitating real-time management, swift medical supply delivery, and efficient resupply systems for mass casualty and point-of-injury scenarios.

The primary goal is to evaluate how UAS can improve the response times, operational efficiency, and effectiveness of Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) during crises. The paper also aims to address the integration of UAS into existing emergency frameworks and regulatory, technical, operational, and logistical challenges involved.

The study explores UAS’s capabilities in real-time surveillance, reconnaissance, and Command and Control (C2) to support EMT decision-making. It covers the delivery of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, vaccines, and telemedicine support. Additionally, it reviews the integration of UAS into current emergency response systems, focusing on compliance with aviation regulations, development of operational procedures, and necessary training and infrastructure.

UAS have shown promise in enhancing EMT operational efficiency, particularly in hostile and hard-to-reach areas. Case studies, including the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) pilot project, demonstrate UAS’s practical applications in medical logistics, public health, disaster relief, and telemedicine. Key performance indicators are established to measure the success of UAS implementations.

The innovative use of UAS in emergency medical interventions marks a significant advancement in healthcare delivery. By improving speed, efficiency, and accessibility, UAS can revolutionize emergency medical responses, particularly in isolated and challenging environments. As UAS technology evolves, its role in emergency medical support is expected to expand, further enhancing crisis healthcare delivery.