Comparative analysis of emergency medical systems in the UK and Japan:
recommendations for Japan based on on-site observations in the UK
Dublin Core
Title
Comparative analysis of emergency medical systems in the UK and Japan:
recommendations for Japan based on on-site observations in the UK
recommendations for Japan based on on-site observations in the UK
Subject
Emergency medical services, Trauma centers, Air ambulances, Education medical, Health services research,
Qualitative research
Qualitative research
Description
Abstract
Background Emergency Medical Systems (EMS) are central to modern healthcare, providing timely, specialized care.
Although the United Kingdom (UK) and Japan have universal healthcare, their EMS models differ significantly. The UK
emphasizes centralized trauma networks, advanced prehospital capabilities, standardized simulation training, robust
research integration, and a high degree of specialization and division of labor. Japan’s EMS prioritizes accessibility
through a tiered system and regional autonomy. Both systems face workforce sustainability issues and documentation
inefficiencies. This study provides recommendations for enhancing Japan’s EMS by examining the UK system through
on-site observations.
Methods A qualitative observational study was conducted during a four-day site visit in May 2024 to key EMS
institutions in London, including the Royal London Hospital Major Trauma Center, the London Air Ambulance, and
allied educational and research facilities. Five Japanese emergency physicians with expertise in trauma care, ICU
management, simulation-based training, and prehospital emergency services participated. Data collection included
direct clinical observations, structured discussions with UK clinicians and administrators, and a review of institutional
guidelines. Thematic analysis identified strengths, weaknesses, and potential applicability to Japan.
Results In the UK, EMS leverages division of labor, specialization, centralization, and standardization to ensure
efficient, high-quality care. Trauma networks, robust simulation-based education, integrated ICU management, and
advanced HEMS systems are supported by unified research frameworks. However, workforce inefficiencies in staff
allocation persist. Applying UK insights to Japan includes establishing dedicated trauma centers, standardizing care
protocols, integrating systems, and enhancing research culture. Some strategies, such as integrated prehospital
services, face feasibility challenges in Japan due to staffing issues.
Conclusion On-site observations of the UK’s EMS highlight organizational efficiency and the benefits of integrated,
specialized care. Incorporating UK-inspired frameworks could strengthen Japan’s EMS, especially by unifying systems and centralizing trauma care. Ongoing international collaboration and further comparative research are crucial for
advancing global EMS practices.
Trial registration Not applicable.
Keywords Emergency medical services, Trauma centers, Air ambulances, Education medical, Health services research,
Qualitative research
Background Emergency Medical Systems (EMS) are central to modern healthcare, providing timely, specialized care.
Although the United Kingdom (UK) and Japan have universal healthcare, their EMS models differ significantly. The UK
emphasizes centralized trauma networks, advanced prehospital capabilities, standardized simulation training, robust
research integration, and a high degree of specialization and division of labor. Japan’s EMS prioritizes accessibility
through a tiered system and regional autonomy. Both systems face workforce sustainability issues and documentation
inefficiencies. This study provides recommendations for enhancing Japan’s EMS by examining the UK system through
on-site observations.
Methods A qualitative observational study was conducted during a four-day site visit in May 2024 to key EMS
institutions in London, including the Royal London Hospital Major Trauma Center, the London Air Ambulance, and
allied educational and research facilities. Five Japanese emergency physicians with expertise in trauma care, ICU
management, simulation-based training, and prehospital emergency services participated. Data collection included
direct clinical observations, structured discussions with UK clinicians and administrators, and a review of institutional
guidelines. Thematic analysis identified strengths, weaknesses, and potential applicability to Japan.
Results In the UK, EMS leverages division of labor, specialization, centralization, and standardization to ensure
efficient, high-quality care. Trauma networks, robust simulation-based education, integrated ICU management, and
advanced HEMS systems are supported by unified research frameworks. However, workforce inefficiencies in staff
allocation persist. Applying UK insights to Japan includes establishing dedicated trauma centers, standardizing care
protocols, integrating systems, and enhancing research culture. Some strategies, such as integrated prehospital
services, face feasibility challenges in Japan due to staffing issues.
Conclusion On-site observations of the UK’s EMS highlight organizational efficiency and the benefits of integrated,
specialized care. Incorporating UK-inspired frameworks could strengthen Japan’s EMS, especially by unifying systems and centralizing trauma care. Ongoing international collaboration and further comparative research are crucial for
advancing global EMS practices.
Trial registration Not applicable.
Keywords Emergency medical services, Trauma centers, Air ambulances, Education medical, Health services research,
Qualitative research
Creator
Kazuhiko Omori1*, Paul Vulliamy2
, Chris Aylwin2
, Hiroki Nagasawa1
, Shigenori Kan3
, Jiro Takahashi4
, Noriaki Yamada5
and Ross Davenport2
, Chris Aylwin2
, Hiroki Nagasawa1
, Shigenori Kan3
, Jiro Takahashi4
, Noriaki Yamada5
and Ross Davenport2
Date
2025
Contributor
Peri Irawan
Format
pdf
Language
english
Type
text
Files
Collection
Citation
Kazuhiko Omori1*, Paul Vulliamy2
, Chris Aylwin2
, Hiroki Nagasawa1
, Shigenori Kan3
, Jiro Takahashi4
, Noriaki Yamada5
and Ross Davenport2, “Comparative analysis of emergency medical systems in the UK and Japan:
recommendations for Japan based on on-site observations in the UK,” Repository Horizon University Indonesia, accessed April 18, 2026, https://repository.horizon.ac.id/items/show/13252.
recommendations for Japan based on on-site observations in the UK,” Repository Horizon University Indonesia, accessed April 18, 2026, https://repository.horizon.ac.id/items/show/13252.