Feasibility of portable telemedicine devices for ambulance-based prehospital triage: a comparative simulation study.
Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine · 2026-04-23 · Method & validation
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Video-based telemedicine can improve prehospital triage. However, it is unclear which portable device enabling a real-time specialist consultation via two-way video and audio connection in dynamic emergency medical service environments should be used. This feasibility study identified the most suitable portable telemedicine device for prehospital triage. METHODS: Four simulated stroke-like scenarios were conducted with ambulance professionals and remote vascular neurologists. Three portable telemedicine devices were tested: two head-mounted assisted-reality devices (RealWear Navigator ™ 520, Vuzix M400) and a smartphone using Siilo Messenger application. Feasibility was evaluated through structured surveys from both user groups and a patient actor. Quantitative data were analysed using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis with stakeholder-derived criterion weights to generate overall value scores and device ranking. RESULTS: Out of 47 analysed surveys, the Vuzix head-mounted device achieved the highest overall value score (0.80), followed by Siilo Messenger smartphone application (0.77) and RealWear head-mounted device (0.73). Ambulance professionals prioritised usability, favouring the smartphone application, whereas neurologists emphasised video quality, favouring Vuzix head-mounted device. Qualitative feedback highlighted trade-offs: head-mounted devices offered hands-free use but required peripherals and hindered patient interaction, while smartphones were intuitive but limited by video quality and image stability. CONCLUSIONS: Device suitability for prehospital telemedicine depends on balancing technical performance with usability. The smartphone-based application provides practical solution for early implementation, while head-mounted devices may be preferable when hands-free operation and video quality are critical. Future research should assess their clinical and operational impact to enable safe and scalable implementation.
Abstract © the authors or publisher, via PubMed. Reuse and removal
Tags
Implementation · Paramedics & EMTs · Prehospital physicians · Teamwork & human factors · Telemedicine
Related articles
- Video consultation in the prehospital stroke chain of care for suspected large vessel occlusion: a mixed-methods feasibility study. (BMC Emerg Med, 2026)
- Communication and Teamwork During Telemedicine-Enabled Stroke Care in an Ambulance. (Hum Factors, 2022)
- A simulation study on optimizing stationary camera locations for physician-directed telemedical supervision of prehospital advanced life support: Single-versus dual-camera setups. (Medicine (Baltimore), 2026)
- Acceptability of ambulance-based telemedicine (ABT) for paediatric emergencies in Karachi, Pakistan. (BMJ Glob Health, 2026)
- The impact of video consultation on interprofessional collaboration and professional roles: a simulation-based study in prehospital stroke chain of care. (J Interprof Care, 2024)
- Feasibility of a Pre-Hospital Virtual Triage and Care Model: A Mixed-Methods Pilot in Emergency Care. (Emerg Med Australas, 2025)