[Medical-social aspects of repatriation flights]

The increase of journeys abroad has led to a continual rise of international flights repatriating ill or injured persons. These repatriations flights are carried out by rescue organisations such as the German Air Rescue Organisation. A survey of the patients transported has been made in respect with the patient collective. The following factors were taken into accounts: the severity of condition with regulation aids of the NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics), used by the American Army. Together with medical and social indications an additional parameter had be considered. A questionnaire is available to access the social indications. A neutral observer is recommended to protect the interest of the patient, insurance company and the rescue organisation.