first medical contact time
Time when patient first encounters healthcare professional, either EMS or hospital arrival.
Full Definition
First medical contact time represents the initial moment when a patient with acute coronary syndrome encounters any healthcare professional, whether in the prehospital setting with emergency medical services or upon arrival at the hospital emergency department. This timing metric has become increasingly important as it provides a more accurate assessment of system performance, especially when prehospital ECG acquisition and activation protocols are utilized. Quality guidelines now often reference first medical contact rather than door times to capture the complete care continuum.
Usage
Usage note: Increasingly preferred over door time metrics in integrated care systems.
In Context
- "The first medical contact to balloon time was 78 minutes including prehospital transport." — STEMI network report
- "Prehospital ECG acquisition shortened first medical contact to diagnosis time significantly." — EMS quality review