A Standardized Protocol for Medical Specimen Delivery by Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles in Multi-Campus Hospitals

Efficient transportation of medical specimens across multi-campus hospital networks is frequently hindered by urban traffic congestion and traditional vehicle delays. This protocol outlines a comprehensive methodology for establishing an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV)-based medical logistics system to achieve rapid, safe, and cost-aware specimen delivery. The procedure details the end-to-end implementation framework, beginning with quantitative demand assessment, stakeholder consultation, tender preparation, and strategic partnership modeling. Subsequent critical steps include flight route planning, regulatory airspace approval, UAV model selection, container validation, base station construction, and standardized personnel training. Furthermore, the protocol covers trial operations, system calibration, routine maintenance, and emergency response mechanisms prior to formal deployment. Application of this protocol at a tertiary hospital successfully established a three-campus UAV network. Representative results demonstrate that this method reduced average transport time by nearly two-thirds and decreased direct operational costs by 62%, while maintaining a 100% specimen integrity rate in the reported operational period. By providing a multidimensional analysis of technical, operational, regulatory, and managerial procedures, this standardized framework enables healthcare institutions to evaluate, replicate, and scale low-altitude smart medical logistics networks in complex urban environments.