Diagnosis Feedback A Prospective Survey on Paramedic Perspectives and Clinical Impact
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Abstract
Introduction: Paramedics rarely receive formal feedback on patient outcomes following handover, despite evidence that such information may support learning, confidence, and reflective practice.
Objective: To evaluate whether emergency department (ED) diagnosis feedback influences paramedics’ perceived sense of closure, confidence managing similar cases, reflective practice, and perceived diagnostic skill.
Methods: This prospective, predominantly quantitative survey was conducted among paramedics in a mid-sized urban setting, between April and December 2018. Paramedics who requested their patient’s final ED diagnosis (n = 317) were provided with diagnosis feedback and invited to complete online surveys at one week and three months. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and optional free-text responses were reviewed to identify recurring themes.
Results: Of the 317 paramedics who received diagnosis feedback, 46.4% completed the one-week survey and 32.2% completed the three-month survey. At one week, 86% reported a sense of closure about the call, and over 80% agreed that feedback increased their confidence for similar cases and prompted clinical reflection. At three months, 91% reported improved differential diagnostic skills, and 96% stated they would use feedback regularly if available. A minority reported added stress or anxiety when their field impression differed from the ED diagnosis. Qualitative comments reinforced these results, describing feedback as a helpful educational tool that provided confidence and closure.
Conclusion: Paramedics perceived ED diagnosis feedback as a valuable educational tool that may support reflective practice, confidence managing similar cases, and perceived diagnostic skill. These findings suggest that structured diagnosis feedback may serve as a meaningful component of paramedic professional development.
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