Leveraging Technology for Effective Medical Management at Mass Public Events: A Case for Enhanced Safety and Wellbeing
Manish Sharma
Leveraging Technology for Effective Medical Management at Mass Public Events: A Case for Enhanced Safety and Wellbeing
Introduction:
Mass public events like religious gatherings, concerts, and sporting events bring together vast crowds, creating unique challenges in managing medical services. While these events foster cultural exchange and community spirit, they can overwhelm existing medical infrastructure due to potential outbreaks, injuries, and pre-existing medical conditions.
According to a 2016 systematic review published in Frontiers in Public Health, social mass gatherings like music festivals and exhibitions are associated with a significant increase in emergency medical service (EMS) call volume (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1394384/full). This highlights the strain such events can place on medical resources.
Fortunately, technology offers a powerful suite of tools to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and overall safety of medical services at these gatherings. This paper explores various technological solutions across five key areas: risk assessment and planning, real-time communication and coordination, resource allocation, patient monitoring and care, and public information and engagement. Additionally, the paper integrates specific examples from large-scale events like the Kumbh Mela in India to illustrate the practical application of these technologies.
1. Advanced Risk Assessment and Planning: Predicting and Preparing for Potential Threats
Data Analytics in Action: In 2022, the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia utilized data analytics to predict potential heatstroke risks among pilgrims performing outdoor rituals under scorching temperatures. Authorities implemented measures like extended shaded areas, hydration stations, and educational campaigns based on this data (https://www.arabnews.com/node/2527281/saudi-arabia). This proactive approach potentially prevented a significant number of heat-related illnesses.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS mapping technology is being employed at events worldwide. For instance, the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris plans to utilize GIS to map not only the event venues but also surrounding transportation networks, hospitals, and potential emergency evacuation routes, ensuring a more coordinated response in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Case Study: The Kumbh Mela – The Kumbh Mela, the largest human gathering on Earth, requires meticulous planning due to its sheer scale (estimated 200 million attendees in 2019) and diverse demographics. Organizers utilize data analytics to predict potential outbreaks based on historical trends and geographical factors. Additionally, GIS mapping helps them strategically place hundreds of temporary medical facilities across the vast mela area, ensuring medical resources are readily accessible (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235787330_Promoting_a_Culture_of_Safety_as_a_Patient_Safety_Strategy)).
2. Real-Time Communication and Coordination: Seamless Information Flow for Efficient Response
Mobile Apps: Dedicated mobile applications are gaining traction in facilitating real-time communication among medical personnel. For example, at the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, medical staff utilized a secure mobile app to share patient updates, request resources, and coordinate emergency responses, leading to a reported decrease in response times for critical medical situations.
Wearable Devices: Equipping medical staff with wearable devices can further enhance response capabilities. Pilots at marathons and other sporting events are testing smartwatches that monitor their vital signs and location, ensuring their own well-being and faster response times to emergencies among participants.
3. Efficient Resource Allocation: Optimizing Supplies and Expertise
Inventory Management Systems: Implementing inventory management systems allows organizers to track medical supplies and equipment levels in real-time. This technology was employed at the recent Glastonbury Festival in the UK, preventing potential shortages of critical medications and first-aid supplies during the five-day event.
Telemedicine: Telemedicine stations are becoming a valuable resource at large events. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, medical personnel used telemedicine to consult with remote specialists for complex cases, ensuring access to a wider range of expertise without overwhelming on-site resources.
4. Enhanced Patient Monitoring and Care: Ensuring Continuity and Timely Treatments
Electronic Health Records (EHR): EHR systems are increasingly used at mass gatherings. The upcoming Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia plans to implement a centralized EHR system to allow medical personnel to access and maintain patient records across all medical stations, facilitating continuity of care for pilgrims requiring treatment throughout their journey.
Vital Signs Monitoring: Deploying wearable devices or dedicated monitoring systems can track patients’ vital signs in real-time. This technology is being tested at pilot events, with the potential to improve early detection and intervention for conditions like heatstroke or cardiac emergencies.
5. Public Information and Engagement: Empowering Participants with Knowledge and Tools
Social Media and Websites: Social media platforms and
