Aviation ministry to boost helicopter use

New Delhi: In order to give boost to the helicopter industry in the country and popularise the use of choppers for public good, the ministry of civil aviation plans to encourage helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS). The ministry is planning to take up this issue with the health department and has written to various hospital groups to start HEMS.
“The ministry has decided to observe this year as a year of helicopters. We would like to bring to the fore the concept of HEMS and how these services can be institutionalised for the benefit of the public. The government will ask the state governments and private hospitals to develop helipads in and around metros as well as state and district headquarters for this service. This is another essential requirement which will be taken up for the success of HEMS,” said a senior ministry official.
The ministry plans to formulate a policy framework with the Union health ministry which would facilitate better use of helicopters. Many people in the industry feel it is not going to be difficult for a country like India which spends around $45.7 billion annually in the healthcare segment. HEMS will be designed to meet the aero medicial needs of the patient with life-support equipment, trained doctors, paramedics and necessary drugs.
According to industry sources, there is tremendous potential for air medical services in the country.
17/08/08 Raja Awasthi/Economic Times

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Aug 2008, New Aug 2008