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Sixteen years with the Danish Search and Rescue Helicopter Service
F Wegmann1, B Kromann-Andersen, T Staehr Johansen
1Royal Danish Air Force, Vedbaek, Denmark.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|May 1, 1990
Summary
The Danish helicopter rescue service, established in 1966, found its physician-staffed missions highly effective. Adding a physician enhanced medical interventions, particularly for trauma and cardiopulmonary emergencies.
Area of Science:
- Aerospace Medicine
- Emergency Medical Services
- Public Health
Background:
- The Danish helicopter rescue service was established in its current form in 1966.
- The Sikorsky (S-61) helicopter has been the primary aircraft, with satisfactory performance.
- In 1973, a significant enhancement was made by adding a physician with aerospace medicine and helicopter training to the crew.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and impact of a physician-staffed helicopter rescue service.
- To analyze the types of missions and medical interventions performed.
- To highlight the benefits of specialized medical personnel in helicopter rescue operations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of mission data from 1973 to 1989.
- Categorization of mission types and medical interventions.
- Review of patient conditions treated during missions.
Main Results:
- A total of 5,733 missions were conducted between 1973 and 1989.
- Direct medical intervention was provided in 2,075 missions (36.2%).
- 94% of missions supported the civilian public health service, treating diverse conditions including trauma, abdominal, and cardiopulmonary diseases.
Conclusions:
- The integration of a physician significantly enhanced the medical capabilities of the helicopter rescue service.
- Specialized training in aerospace medicine and acute care is crucial for physicians in this role.
- The service plays a vital role in supporting public health, particularly in emergency situations.