The list of the top causes of death and lost disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) globally includes many conditions that initially present in the emergency setting. These top causes include lower respiratory infections, ischemic heart disease, and acute injury. The morbidity and mortality that result from these causes can be minimized with emergency treatment. A key element to reducing morbidity and mortality from acute illnesses is the time of patient transport to a medical facility, which has been most clearly demonstrated for acute injury.