The evolution of emergency medicine in Jamaica.

Emergency Medicine in Jamaica has evolved rapidly over the past 20 years and has gained recognition as a specialty. A residency training programme has been established, trademark life support courses are now available, moves to develop areas of sub-specialization have begun and an emergency medicine association has been formed. There has been an increase in the diagnostic modalities in the main teaching institution, the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI). There is an urgent need for improvements in pre-hospital care. This will require the development of an efficient Emergency Medical Service (EMS). More emphasis and attention is required on disaster medicine, toxicology and trauma. Increased training of emergency physicians and nurses, advances in academia and research, and greater advocacy by local emergency physicians will further advance the specialty.