Perspectives of Emergency Medical Technicians on the Integration of Medical Science Education in Prehospital Emergency Care in Iran: A Thematic Analysis Study

Background: Prehospital emergency care plays a vital role in the healthcare system and can significantly affect the outcomes of patients. Integrating medical science education into Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) training programs could improve prehospital emergency care and patient outcomes. Objectives: The present study was conducted to explore the perspectives of Iranian EMTs on integrating medical science education in prehospital emergency care. Methods: This study was a qualitative descriptive design in Iran. Using the purposive sampling method, data were collected through in-depth individual interviews with 13 EMTs who had completed EMT training programs in Iran. Thematic analysis, a form of qualitative content analysis, was used to identify key challenges and barriers to integrating medical science education, as well as potential benefits and opportunities. Results: After multiple rounds of analyzing and summarizing the data and considering similarities and differences, 2 main categories and 6 subcategories were created based on the results of the data analysis, including: inadequate training and lack of ongoing training and professional development opportunities . Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of stakeholder collaboration and communication to develop effective EMT training programs. Integrating medical science education in EMT training programs could improve the quality of prehospital emergency care and, ultimately, the health outcomes of patients.