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The Royal London Hospital Helicopter Emergency Medical Service: first phase 1990.
A J Botha1, R J Earlam, A W Wilson
1Department of General Surgery, Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|September 1, 1992
Summary
A Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) was established in Southeast England to enhance trauma care. The service, utilizing a Dauphin 365N helicopter, successfully transported 191 patients in its first year of operation.
Area of Science:
- Emergency medicine
- Aeromedical services
- Trauma care systems
Background:
- Trauma care in Southeast England required enhancement.
- A significant portion of emergency medical service workload is concentrated around the M25 ring road.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) for improved trauma care.
- To assess the initial operational capacity and patient transport numbers for the new HEMS.
Main Methods:
- A Dauphin 365N helicopter was certified for pre-hospital rescue and inter-hospital transfers.
- The HEMS commenced operations in early 1990 with a paramedic and doctor onboard.
- A helipad at the Royal London Hospital and a HEMS desk at London Ambulance Service central control were established in September 1990.
Main Results:
- In 1990, the HEMS transported 84 patients in primary rescue missions.
- Additionally, 107 patients were transported via emergency inter-hospital secondary transfers during 1990.
- The service demonstrated operational capability for both critical care scenarios.
Conclusions:
- The introduction of HEMS in Southeast England significantly enhanced trauma care capabilities.
- The service proved effective in managing both primary rescue and secondary transfer missions.
- Operational improvements, including a dedicated helipad and control desk, supported efficient service delivery.
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