Function of a Coordinated Helicopter-Emergency Service

Abstract

The use of the helicopter as a means of emergency medical transport has been discussed in many meetings. Without any doubt there are important advantages in using a helicopter:

• 1. Rapidity of Operation

• 2. Independence of road traffic disturbances

• 3. Fast transportation of seriously ill patients

On the other hand, some disadvantages have to be mentioned:

• 1. Restricted use during the night

• 2. Dependence on meteorological conditions

• 3. Necessity of landing-fields

• 4. Restriction in size

• 5. Noise inside and outside the helicopter

• 6. Expensive service

• 7. High running costs

In short, it is clear that to be as mobile as possible, it is necessary to have a helicopter on hand, but, considering the disadvantages, only as part of a system that also includes a well-organized ground service with ambulances and rescue vehicles. We can divide helicopter Operations into three groups:

• 1. Transportation of physician to the spot of the event or transportation of the patient to the nearest specialized hospital.

• 2. Transportation of a patient from one hospital to a better equipped clinic. Very often the vital functions of the patient are still endangered, although there are less critical cases.

• 3. In combined Operation both helicopter and emergency ambulance will be on hand.