China's two international emergency medical teams (EMT) were recently certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) at Palais des Nations, on May 24, Geneva time, Switzerland.

China is a model of strengthening domestic emergency medical capability and guaranteeing regional as well as global security, said Tedros, director-general of the WHO, at the certification ceremony.

The two EMTs, one led by Tianjin People's Hospital and the other by the Macao SAR Health Bureau, are defined by the WHO as Type 2 and Type 1 EMTs, respectively, according to WHO definition. 

Building international EMTs is a reflection of China’s determination to meet international standards and actively guarantee global health security, and also a highlight of the deep and effective cooperation between China and WHO.

Boosting the construction of the international EMTs is conducive to a country's improving its ability to respond to domestic emergencies and to guard international health security, said Tedros.

As of Apr 30, 2019, there were 25 EMTs globally which has acquired the WHO certification. China contributed five, including one team of Type 3, three of Type 2 and one of Type 1.

There are three types of EMT, based on WHO definitions.

Type 1 should be able to provide outpatient initial emergency care of injuries and other significant health care needs. The Type 2 must provide emergency care, including surgery, around the clock, and the Type 3 must be able to provide inpatient referral care and complex surgery.