The current e-ambulance solution serves as a digital tool for ambulance crews, allowing them to access real-time patient health information and document their actions when resolving cases. However, this system is becoming outdated, prompting the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF) to launch a tender in 2022 for a new e-ambulance system.
The planned new system aimed to provide user-friendly documentation and more intelligent support for ambulance operations. Its key objectives included enhancing technical quality, developing a simple and functional user interface, enabling telemedicine consultations across all Estonian ambulances, integrating equipment for automatic data exchange, offering essential support for medical decision-making, and streamlining the future adoption of innovative features.
Unfortunately, the original deadline for the updated e-ambulance, February 2025, was missed. The developer then proposed an alternative solution by summer 2026, but EHIF rejected this due to significant cost increases and a determination that it would not meet specific needs. Consequently, the contract with the procurement partners was terminated by mutual agreement after a thorough evaluation of the project’s sustainability. Both parties concluded that continuing under the existing terms would not have led to the desired outcome.
This termination resulted in a substantial financial loss. In total, 1.1 million euros had been paid for the project. Following negotiations, EHIF managed to recoup approximately 750,000 euros, leaving a final loss of 350,000 euros.
Looking ahead, EHIF will announce a new tender, incorporating lessons learned from this unsuccessful experience. Importantly, the contract’s termination will not impact daily ambulance operations or patient safety, as the current digital solution remains active.