Early reperfusion of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) leads to better outcomes. Interventions that have resulted in shorter door-to-balloon time include prehospital cardiovascular laboratory activation and prehospital electrocardiogram transmission, which are only available for patients who arrive via emergency ambulances.

A Singapore retrospective study examined data of patients who arrived at the emergency department by emergency ambulances and via their own transport. The findings revealed that arrival via ambulance was associated with a decreased door-to-balloon time for STEMI patients compared to arriving via own transport. In spite of this, only a third of the patient cohort had arrived by ambulance.

Public education can help to increase awareness of STEMI symptoms and the use of emergency transportation when experiencing such symptoms. Findings from the study can guide further investigations and workflow to improve door-to-balloon time.