Chin Med J (Taipei) 1998;61:S147.

Aeromedical Emergency Services ("Air Ambulance") An International Overview: Update on Problems and Pitfalls

Eelco H. Dykstra, M.D., Chairman

Pan European Center for Emergency Medical Management Systems (PECEMMS Foundation), Apeldoorn, the Netherlands

Abstract

A literature search on a number of emergency medical topics from electronic databases was recently conducted by the PECEMMS Foundation (1998 - unpublished). The search under "Air Ambulance" revealed 234 entries. This presentation will point out some of the findings, trends, and highlights of this search.

Specific issues will be discussed within the context of:
1. a system approach to the delivery of emergency medical services
2. cost vs. benefit considerations of air ambulance services for the overall healthcare system

Topics covered in some detail will include:
-- indications for use of the air ambulance: on paper and in practice
-- comparison of helicopter and ground ambulance transport
-- airway management and die hypobaric environment
-- rural vs. urban interventions
-- inter-hospital transport criteria
-- training and composition of the flight crew
-- survival and outcome

A brief overview will be given on air ambulance service operations from the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, Turkey, Norway and the USA.

An international survey of 15-20 air ambulance services will be conducted. Results of this survey will be presented at the meeting in Taipei in the form of "lessons learned": rules on what to do and what not to do, thus providing a practical and easy-to-use guide for the development of aeromedical services.

[Chin Med J (Taipei) 1998;61:S147.]