Inside ImageTrend’s First-Ever EMS Research Workshop

From April 8–10, 2026, EMS professionals from across the country gathered at ImageTrend’s headquarters in Eagan, MN for something a little different: three full days dedicated not just to talking about research, but actually doing it. 

The inaugural ImageTrend EMS Research Workshop was designed to break down common barriers to EMS research like limited time, support, and access to data, offering attendees a chance to do some hands-on learning, real-world analysis, and meaningful collaboration. Whether participants arrived with prior research experience or not, the goal was the same: equip them with the tools to turn real questions from the field into actionable, data-backed insights that can move EMS forward. 

From Questions to Conclusions 

Over the course of three days, attendees worked in small groups to identify research gaps, dig into national EMS data, and build studies step by step. Day 1 focused on defining the problem: what we know, what we assume, and what still needs a closer look. Day 2 moved into methodology and analysis, with participants working directly with statisticians to shape their approach. On Day 3, groups were reviewing results, discussing limitations, and drafting conclusions. 

By the workshop’s end, every group left with a conference-ready research abstract and a clear path toward publication: something many EMS clinicians are interested in, but rarely get the time or support to pursue. 

Research Topics Rooted in Real-World EMS Care 

The studies developed during the workshop reflected challenges EMS professionals see every day, including: 

• Airway Management: Examining the relationship between drug-assisted airway strategies and post-procedural hemodynamic instability. 

• Trauma Transport: Identifying factors associated with lights-and-siren use during trauma transport and when it may or may not be necessary. 

• Pediatric Care: Exploring vascular access and hemodynamic instability in prehospital pediatric patients, where margins for error are especially small. 

• Behavioral Health: Analyzing how naloxone administration prior to EMS arrival influences transport decisions in non-fatal opioid overdoses. 

Each project combined clinical relevance with rigorous methodology, reinforcing that strong EMS research starts with questions grounded in day-to-day practice. 

Why This Work Matters 

This workshop builds on ImageTrend’s long-standing commitment to pursuing high-quality EMS research, including the ImageTrend Collaborate™ dataset, the 2025 EMS Insights Report, and the guidance of our Medical Advisory Board: a trusted group of EMS physicians, researchers, and medical directors who help ensure our research efforts stay grounded in real-world practice and clinical relevance. 

Together, these efforts reflect a shared belief that EMS research shouldn’t feel out of reach. EMS sits at the intersection of public health, public safety, and emergency management, but often lacks a clear institutional “home.” Through research, collaboration, and physician-led guidance, we’re working to change that by supporting work that is rigorous, transparent, and built to stand up to scrutiny while still answering the questions providers face every day. 

Looking Ahead 

The first EMS Research Workshop was just the beginning. Participants left with new skills, new connections, and a clearer understanding of how research can support their work long after the workshop ends.  

As the unique needs and challenges of EMS continue to evolve, creating spaces where clinicians can ask informed questions and get the support to answer them will remain an essential part of advancing and improving emergency response. 

Curious about how EMS research is shaping care today? The 2025 EMS Insights Report brings national EMS data to life, offering insights that support evidence‑based decisions and future research.