In the critical moments following a major incident - a natural disaster, an extensive fire, or a terrorist attack, for example - poor coordination and misallocation of medical resources can cost lives. The sheer scale and complexity of such events can overwhelm even the most well-trained emergency services if there is no unified response plan in place.

This is where the Major Incident Medical Management and Support (MIMMS) system plays a vital role. Grounded in proven methodology and real-world experience, MIMMS provides a clear, structured framework to guide healthcare professionals during high-pressure emergencies, ensuring that mass casualty triage guidelines are followed and resources deployed where they are needed most.

What is MIMMS?

MIMMS - Major Incident Medical Management and Support - is a comprehensive system designed to manage medical services during major incidents. By providing a structured approach to incident management, it ensures efficient command and control, communication, and coordination across all agencies on scene. In simple terms, MIMMS helps medical responders to make timely decisions under extreme pressure, prioritising care and improving survival rates during mass casualty events.

What are the purpose and objectives of MIMMS?

The primary goal of MIMMS is to standardise the response to complex incidents involving multiple casualties. It equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to deliver effective medical care in chaotic environments. Through its emphasis on structure and planning, MIMMS helps to ensure that mass casualty triage guidelines are consistently applied, ensuring that patients are assessed, prioritised, and treated in a way that maximises overall survival rates.

Training for real-world scenarios

MIMMS training is a core component of emergency preparedness for healthcare workers. Courses focus on three pillars: command, control, and communication. Participants also learn practical triage techniques, scene safety, casualty distribution, and coordination with other emergency services. Simulation exercises and case studies form a key part of the training, helping participants to develop confidence and situational awareness in high-stress scenarios.

MIMMS application when it matters most 

MIMMS principles have been applied in a range of incidents across the world, including earthquakes, mass shootings, and large-scale industrial accidents. By following MIMMS protocols, emergency responders can quickly establish control over a chaotic scene, identify priorities, and ensure resources are deployed where they will have the greatest impact.

Integration with broader emergency systems

MIMMS is not a stand-alone protocol but is designed to seamlessly integrate with broader emergency response frameworks, including police, fire, ambulance, and military operations. As has been proven in several high-profile mass casualty events in the UK in recent decades, interoperability is critical to facilitate a coordinated multi-agency response that reduces duplication, confusion, and delays during life-threatening incidents.

Contact TSG Associates to find out more

At TSG Associates, our culture is shaped by extensive field experience and a deep understanding of frontline needs, focused on survival and reducing suffering in critical incidents. For more information about how we can help your organisation to implement MIMMS, please get in touch today.