Aeromedical evacuations in Papua New Guinea--a case for routine oxygen supplementation in developing countries

Aeromedical evacuations in developing Third World countries lack the technological support available in developed countries. 125 hospital admissions from such flights over a four-month period in Papua New Guinea have been analysed to show the pattern of medical conditions and flight altitudes involved. In general, the overall pattern reflects the range of medical problems seen in many other developing countries. 36 percent of all patients were deemed to be at risk of hypoxia; on flights below an altitude of 8000 feet (2440m.) this proportion was 50 percent. Supplementary oxygen (but not 100% oxygen) given routinely to all patients would benefit many without handicapping the remainder.