Recent Tragedies Cannot Detract From Medevac's Importance
In light of recent accidents, the Association of Air Medical
Services (AAMS) says it is working closely with the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) and concerned members of Congress to
actively promote safety enhancements in the air medical community
through FAA rulemaking and federal legislation.
"AAMS is deeply saddened by these recent tragedies and offers
the heartfelt condolences of all of its members to the families,
friends, and co-workers of the victims of the most recent
helicopter EMS accident," the organization wrote, in a release
issued following
Wednesday's loss of a medevac helicopter in
Illinois.
AAMS and the FAA, along with representatives of the aviation
community, have planned closed-door meetings to discuss short and
long term rulemaking changes to address possible deficiencies in
the current rules that apply to Helicopter Emergency Medical
Services (HEMS). The purpose of these discussions, and the
subsequent actions, is to increase the current regulatory standards
based on recommendations made by the NTSB.
AAMS also continues to support Congressional legislation that
promotes changes similar to those under consideration in the
regulatory arena. These changes include higher weather minima on
all legs of an air medical flight, and the mandatory use of risk
assessments before take-off.
Furthermore, AAMS supports the continued study and future
implementation of recording devices in helicopters, both in an
effort to ensure flight quality and to provide additional
information in the event of an incident or accident. AAMS also
continues to advocate for low-altitude weather reporting and
aviation infrastructure improvements desperately needed to enhance
pilots’ decision-making.
While these efforts address both short and long term regulatory
changes, AAMS also continues to promote safe operations in air
medicine. Air medical transport is a critical part of the medical
system in the United States, transporting nearly 400,000 patients
via helicopter per year. These services transport the sickest and
most critically ill patients, and the level of care offered by air
medical services combined with the speed and accessibility of
helicopters are often the determining factor in lifesaving medical
interventions.
AAMS and its members recognize the urgent need to address the
current safety issues; we also must continue to provide this
lifesaving service at the highest level of safety possible.