In a major step toward transforming India’s emergency healthcare system, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Union Health Ministry, is developing a nationwide emergency treatment model to better handle trauma and life-threatening medical emergencies.

The initiative, still in its developmental stage, aims to create a seamless and efficient emergency care network that reaches people at every level — from villages to big cities. 

The goal is simple yet ambitious: save lives by ensuring quick, quality care during the golden hour.

“India has nearly 500 medical colleges, but only about 150 of them have a dedicated Department of Emergency Medicine,” said Dr Sanjeev Bhoi from Department of Emergency Medicine, Delhi-AIIMS. 

“We want every medical college to have one — complete with postgraduate courses, advanced ambulance services, and trained professionals ready to respond to any crisis.”

The model, being designed by AIIMS as the technical partner of the project, will focus on improving response to emergencies such as stroke, heart attacks, trauma, maternal complications, poisoning, sepsis, and snake bites. 

It also plans to set up a standardised emergency medical training (EMT) system — similar to those used abroad — so that ambulances are manned by professionals trained to stabilize patients before they even reach the hospital.

“We are studying global best practices, including the use of air and boat ambulances, to ensure that even people in remote or flood-prone areas can get timely help,” Dr Bhoi added. 

While the project is still taking shape, experts believe it could revolutionise India’s emergency response. Once implemented, the model will not only improve hospital-based emergency care but also strengthen pre-hospital systems — turning ambulances into true mobile lifesaving units.

The initiative reflects the government’s larger vision to make emergency medical services accessible, responsive, and life-saving for every citizen, ensuring that no life is lost for want of timely care.