Analysis of Differences in Disaster Response Competency and Perceptions of Field Emergency Medical Unit Operation : Focusing on Firefighters and Public Health Officials

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to compare disaster response competency and perceptions of Field Emergency Medical Unit operation between firefighters and public health officials in mass casualty incidents. The study also sought to identify differences in role perception between the two groups and provide basic data for improving field emergency medical response systems. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted among firefighters and public health officials in C region from April 10 to August 14, 2025. A total of 256 questionnaires were collected, and 252 were included in the final analysis after excluding four incomplete responses. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé post-hoc test, and χ²-test. Results: Firefighters showed significantly higher disaster response competency than public health officials(t=11.02, p<.001). Significant differences were also found according to age, rank, work experience, and certificate or license type. In addition, workplace differences were identified in awareness of related laws, perception of collaboration systems, experience in mass casualty response training, preparedness of emergency response teams, satisfaction with Field Emergency Medical Unit operation, perceived training effectiveness, and perceived importance of triage, treatment, and transport functions. Conclusion: The findings indicate that firefighters and public health officials differ in their disaster response competency and perceptions of Field Emergency Medical Unit functions. These results suggest the need to develop integrated operation manuals, regular joint training programs, and shared information systems for triage, treatment, and transport in mass casualty incidents.