Modeling Meaningful Use as Utility in Emergency Medical Services

This paper describes a case study focused on identifying and modeling opportunities to support emergency medical services (EMS) with next-generation interactive technologies. The method used is a novel integration of different approaches including scenario-based design, task analysis, and utility-based interaction modeling. The goal of the project is to develop a structured model of EMS activity and to identify where and how this activity can be supported with current and emerging information technologies. Of particular importance is identifying tasks with the highest potential for meaningful use of these technologies. The SUMMIT method and tool set is being used to model meaningful use as a function of the overall utility (benefits, costs, and risks) potentially derived from technology support. The paper provides a description and rationale for the approach and gives lessons learned from the early phases of the project. The SUMMIT approach may be generally useful for organizations that need to understand how new interactive technologies might provide meaningful support for healthcare operations. These models may also be an effective resource for promoting continuous learning and reflection on EMS skills.