Designing Evidence-Based Community First Responder (CFR) Schemes

Abstract

In communities marked by a high prevalence of out-of-hospital-cardiac-arrests (OHCAs), resources may be directed towards interventions such as community first responders (CFRs) [i]. Several research studies have been carried out to understand the nature of CFR schemes, training required, and the work of CFRs on scene. To implement a successful CFR scheme, multiple pieces of information are required to improve overall patient outcomes. Perceptions of public, CFRs and ambulance staff must be understood, and an effective work relationship with the ambulance staff must be organized. CFR training requires multiple evidence-based modules for incident preparedness. CFRs are associated with cost and complexity, and their work may be influenced by medico-legal concerns and professional gatekeeping. Nevertheless, CFR schemes have been advocated globally in the US, UK, Japan, and other parts of Europe [i].

The enclosed content is a summary and graphical depiction of essential elements of Community First Responder (CFR) schemes from recent global surveys.

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Funding Information: None

Conflict of Interests: None