Improving EMS access: Strategic helicopter infrastructure and 3D virtual training for enhanced ground-air ambulance coordination

This study aimed to develop a methodology to strengthen coordination between ground ambulances and helicopter emergency medical services (EMS) for rapid patient transport. Using data on helicopter EMS infrastructure, crash locations, and prehospital EMS times, safety assessments and geographic information system (GIS)-based network analyses were conducted to identify service gaps and prioritize infrastructure expansion. Results showed that EMS stations and heliports near high-fatality crash locations were insufficient to meet prehospital EMS time thresholds. To address this, a three-dimensional virtual space platform combining GIS-based spatial modeling with real-time visualization was developed for training ground and air ambulance operators. This platform realistically simulates patient transport scenarios, enhancing decision-making, and collaboration. The findings provide a data-driven framework for optimizing helicopter EMS infrastructure and developing practical training tools, offering policymakers quantitative evidence to improve EMS accessibility and promote effective strategies for timely patient transport.