The ambulance services in northern Norway 2004–2008: improved competence, more tasks, better logistics and increased costs

BACKGROUND The ambulance services in northern Norway have undergone significant development during recent years. AIMS The objective of this study was to describe these changes in terms of tasks performed, distance driven, resources spent and level of competence in terms of education. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed. The ambulance fleet's activity during the time period 2004-2008 was analysed. The subject was the ambulance fleet in northern Norway and its crew members. Tasks done, kilometres driven, resources spent per thousand inhabitants and level of competence were the main outcome measures. RESULTS The major findings were almost doubled costs (92%), increasing number of tasks performed (13%) and a stable situation concerning kilometres driven. We also revealed improving competence in terms of education. A 20% absolute increase in crew members having a certificate of competence (fagbrev) was observed. CONCLUSIONS Significant economic resources have been invested in the fleet. Improved level of competence and an upgraded coordination system have improved logistics and hopefully treatment outcome. The latter should be further elucidated when the electronic patient record (EPR) system has been implemented.