A 12-month retrospective descriptive analysis of a single helicopter emergency medical service operator in four South African provinces.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) is integrated into modern emergency medical services because of its suggested mortality benefit in certain patient populations, it is an expensive resource and appropriate use/feasibility in low- to middle income countries (LMIC) is highly debated. To maximise benefit, correct patient selection in HEMS is paramount. To achieve this, current practices first need to be described. The study aims to describe a population of patients utilising HEMS in South Africa, in terms of flight data, patient demographics, provisional diagnosis, as well as clinical characteristics and interventions.

Methods

A retrospective flight- and patient-chart review were conducted, extracting clinical and mission data of a single aeromedical ope

SUBMITTER: Vlok N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10238258 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature