Teleemergency doctor starts in Solingen and Remscheid: rescue redefined!

Teleemergency doctor starts in Solingen and Remscheid: rescue redefined!

From July 1, 2025, an innovative teleemergency doctor system will be introduced in the RSG region, which, according to Radiorsg, could revolutionize the operations of rescue workers. In the future, emergency paramedics will be able to call a teleemergency doctor directly or connect to him via video, all while working on site with patients. One of the special features of the system is that the ambulances are equipped with cameras and special cell phones to enable smooth communication. The teleemergency doctor also has access to relevant medical data and vital measurements, which makes it easier to make quick and well-founded decisions on site.

In the past, an emergency doctor had to personally come to the scene to give instructions, especially when administering strong painkillers. This new procedure not only saves time, but could also significantly increase patient safety. Four ambulances in Solingen and Remscheid are currently equipped with this new technology, and more vehicles are to follow gradually.

A look behind the scenes of the teleemergency doctor system

What exactly is this teleemergency doctor? According to Wikipedia it is a concept for preclinical patient care in the emergency services. The tele-emergency medical centers, in which experienced emergency doctors with special qualifications in tele-emergency medicine operate, offer technical support for communication between the emergency services personnel and the doctors. Audiovisual means of communication and real-time transmission of vital data are used. This helps to make quick but also safe decisions in emergency situations that are based on the latest medical knowledge.

Given the increasing shortage of skilled workers in the emergency services and the increasing number of missions, the teleemergency doctor system is not only an innovative approach, but also helps to reduce the pressure on emergency doctors. According to medical experts, in Germany we are facing challenges that, among other things, are due to an old information and telecommunications structure. The Ärzteblatt emphasizes that comprehensive emergency medical care is already at risk in some regions.

Opportunities for the future

The introduction of the teleemergency doctor system could also enable a comprehensive solution in areas with a low density of emergency doctors. An example of successful use comes from Aachen, where a pilot project for teleemergency doctor implementation has already been carried out. The positive experiences from these projects show how important the documented and digital transfer of patient information between emergency services and hospitals is in order to increase the quality of care.

In summary, the teleemergency doctor system promises not only a modernization of emergency medicine, but also a good hand in bridging the gap between preclinical and inpatient care. Almost all German federal states are now considering introducing similar systems. The coming months will show how the new service is received here in the Cologne region and whether it lives up to expectations.