Design and development of a mobile application for emergency medical assistance for running-related injuries in a marathon event

Abstract

This research was dedicated to the creation and refinement of a mobile application, specifically crafted for providing Emergency Medical Assistance at marathon events in Thailand. As the popularity of marathons surges, propelled by a growing health consciousness and a rising trend in regular exercise among Thais, the demand for efficient medical support in these settings has intensified. This study explored the necessity of instant access to runners' medical data to facilitate clinical decision-making and potential hospital admissions for specific symptoms. Key aspects investigated included essential features for the application, prevalent injuries among marathon runners, and the application's perceived utility and user-friendliness by medical professionals. The developed system integrates health records and real-time location data, ensuring swift pre-hospital intervention. The research was conducted during the Khao Yai marathon, involving 7,728 runners and 40 medical personnel. Findings highlighted the importance of rapid access to medical histories, emergency contacts, real-time location tracking, and efficient medical team coordination. Common injuries noted were swollen feet and legs. While the application proved useful and user-friendly, recommendations for future enhancements, particularly a more intuitive interface, were identified.