Handoffs between prehospital emergency medical services (EMS) providers and hospital emergency departments (EDs) can be suboptimal, which increases patient harm potential. This report examines National Health Service discharge delays. It suggests a systemic approach is needed to address flow and capacity factors that contribute to ineffective and unsafe interfacility discharge and transfer.

Stressful and caustic work environments are known to compromise health care safety and teamwork. This news story discusses an ongoing investigation in the British National Health Service to examine factors in ambulance services that minimize its safety and effectiveness. Clinicians interviewed revealed serious problems with the work cultures.

Air transport service combines risks associated with both aviation and prehospital trauma care. This article discusses the role of human factors in this fast-paced care environment. The author encourages efforts to reduce risks through policy change, purchasing the latest safety equipment, and empowering staff to decline calls when conditions are unsafe.