Air ambulances are civilian aircrafts that are pressed into service during a medical emergency.
Air ambulances can be categorized on the basis of their operating models of the EMS. The emergency medicine system has classified air ambulances into two base models –
- The Anglo American Model
- The Franco German Model
Both these models vary in their approach to a situation. While in one the doctor is in charge, in the other the paramedic calls the shots.
Lets read about these two models in detail –
1.Franco German Model –
- In the air ambulance based on this model, the physician travels with the patient in the air craft. The doctor monitors the patient constantly and takes all the decisions regarding him.
- In this model the support staff like nurses, paramedic staff and the doctors arrive at the site or accident location with the help of an air ambulance.
- The paramedics take care of the first aid and hand over the case to the doctor.
- The doctor arrives at the crisis site with all the equipment he might need.
- The patient is transported only deemed stable and fit to travel.
2. The Anglo American Model –
- The patient is straightaway transferred to a hospital with the help of long distance medical transport services.
- The doctors and nurses take over the moment the patient reaches the medical facility.
- The paramedics handle the case at the location and ensure that a patient is transported safely to the hospital.
- The first line of treatment is handled by the paramedics and no doctor is involved at that stage.
- The team stays in touch with a doctor in case any special on the spot procedures need to be carried out.
