Utilisation of prehospital Emergency Medical Services for diabetic emergencies

Severe hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemic crises are acute, life-threatening complications of diabetes frequently encountered by paramedics. This research investigated utilisation patterns and clinical outcomes for patients suffering diabetic emergencies. Over 41,500 cases were analysed, finding annual utilisation rates of 15.3 and 5.4 per 1000 Victorians for hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia respectively, demonstrating substantial use of the prehospital EMS. Temporal trend analysis predicted an increase in diabetic emergency cases and geographical analysis highlighted increased risk was associated with socioeconomic status and ethnicity. The combination of a diabetes epidemic and increasing pressures on the EMS requires careful consideration and planning. This work provides direction for potential service-wide improvements aimed at preventing and managing these presentations.