If a situation comes up that is dire and critical enough to justify the use of an air evac service, it can be very hard to pick a service. There are numerous factors to be contemplated when making such a critical choice. This article will go over those factors and hopefully help in making an educated selection when it comes to selecting an air evac service.
The first thing that must be considered is the aircraft itself. If possible, pick a service with aircrafts that are equipped with large fuel tanks, so as to lessen fuel stops that might delay the transport of the patient. A large aircraft with a big fuel tank typically also comes with a larger entry doorway, which will make loading and unloading less difficult.
An additional thing to learn about air ambulances is how many pilots they have per plane. Having two pilots is surely preferable than having one pilot, as there will be an assurance or safety net if ever something happens to one of the pilots. Also, learn about how the air evacuation service chooses their pilots. Ask how many hours pilots are obligated to have flown before being qualified to fly their air ambulance aircraft. 2,000 hours of flying experience is usually a prudent number.
Besides the flight crew, one must also think about the quality of the medical team on board. The pilots may be flying the plane, but these are the people who will be caring for and ensuring the safety of the passenger on board. The ability of the medical staff is crucial. Not all air evacuation services ready their medical crew for flight-specific emergencies and conditions. Be sure to pick a service that has vision to do so.
One more factor to think about is how well decked out an air evac service’s aircraft is. Medical equipment seems like it should be standard for all air ambulances, but due to the large costs of operation, many air evacuation services charter out their planes. As a result, many aeroplanes do not have the complete array of the medical equipment that might possibly be required. This is a risk that a person should never be willing to take.
There are also air evac providers that employ open policies about people riding with the patient. Patients are most likely to take the flight better when escorted by family or friends, so this is an important point to ponder. Some air evac services will permit family and friends onboard, but for a expensive price. It would be a good idea to look for a service that allows at least a couple of people on the plane with the passenger, at no charge.
Be certian to select an air evac service that provides bedside to bedside service. This means that the flight and medical crew will be with the patient until he or she reaches the hospital or medical facility. This way, the medical crew can brief the hospital crew on the patient's status and provide them all the data they will be in need of.
Denise K. Wayne is a long-time authority on air ambulances. One may learn much more regarding how to hire an air evac at her site.
