Effective algorithm-based triage and self-care protocols: quality medicine at lower costs.
The triage phase of an algorithm-based medical care system was analyzed in three military patient environments. Combat medics triaged 4,799 patients using a physician-prepared triage manual which specified levels of initial health care based on the patient's presenting complaints and a brief history. Evaluation indicated that 36% of those reporting for sick call were eligible for treatment by medically appropriate self-care protocols. Of the remaining 64%, all but 4% could receive initial evaluation by non-physician health care extenders. The study demonstrates that personnel receiving basic medical training and orientation to an algorithm-directed triage system can direct military patients to appropriate levels of health care.
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008887:Military Medicine; D014218:Triage / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States