EMS, disasters, review of Ordinance No. 2,048, and health technology assessment

Abstract

The editorial highlights the urgent need to adapt Brazilian Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to the new climate reality, in which disasters are recurring events rather than exceptions. National and global data show devastating impacts: more than 95% of municipalities were affected between 2013 and 2024, resulting in economic losses exceeding R$732 billion and impacting millions of people. Given this scenario, the editorial advocates revising Ordinance No. 2,048/2002, which regulates emergency care in the Unified Health System (SUS), to integrate disaster management into public policies, coordinating EMS with civil defense. At the same time, Health Technology Assessment is highlighted as a fundamental pillar for incorporating tools such as drones and artificial intelligence, improving real-time response. The conclusion is that professional training must evolve beyond classic protocols, including skills in crisis management, communication, and the use of technology, to build a more resilient and sustainable response system.