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Khorsha H, Kordjazi M, Ashabi M, Amirighadi R, Paghe A, Mohajervatan A. Impact of Temperature on Response Times in Emergency Medical Services. Health in Emergencies and Disasters Quarterly 2026; 11 (3) :191-200
URL: http://hdq.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-717-fa.html

Background: Situations involving ambulance dispatch can be influenced by environmental factors, such as weather and climate. Therefore, this study investigates how temperature impacts the response time of emergency medical services in Golestan Province, Iran.
Materials and Methods: A study was conducted to analyze the impact of temperature on EMS response times in Golestan Province, Iran, from March 21, 2019 to March 20, 2024. Data were collected from the pre-hospital care report (PCR) and the Golestan Meteorological Department using the convenience sampling method. Also, the variability in ambulance response time was examined in relation to the documented temperatures.
Results: Our research findings revealed that the highest rate of calls leading to ambulance dispatches occurred at an average temperature of 25–30 °C (25.79%). In contrast, the lowest frequency of calls resulting in ambulance deployments was recorded at temperatures below 5 °C (2.17%), a difference that is statistically significant. Additionally, we found that the response times at temperatures under 5 degrees and above 30 °C were longer than at other temperature ranges and surpassed the national standard.
Conclusion: Our research found that the highest number of calls resulting in ambulance dispatch occurred during times of increased average temperatures. Additional studies support our findings, indicating that EMS responses tend to rise with rising temperatures. This study provides data-driven proof for planners to address the challenges presented by climate change. By predicting surges in service demands during climate fluctuations, we can strategize for effective resource distribution and reduce patient wait times.