Helicopter Emergency Medical Services for Trauma: An Update

Purpose of Review Helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) have become a well-established component of most contemporary trauma systems throughout the world. HEMS is associated with significant costs, safety concerns, and potential inappropriate use. In this update, we briefly review the histori...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Current surgery reports (Philadelphia, PA) PA), 2019-08, Vol.7 (8), Article 17
Main Authors: Fedeles, Benjamin, Galvagno, Samuel M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Section Editor
Surgery
Trauma Surgery
Trauma Surgery (J. Diaz
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Summary:Purpose of Review Helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) have become a well-established component of most contemporary trauma systems throughout the world. HEMS is associated with significant costs, safety concerns, and potential inappropriate use. In this update, we briefly review the historical context, evidence for clinical effectiveness, and methods for ensuring proper utilization of HEMS. Recent Findings A recently validated prehospital triage score—the Air Medical Prehospital Triage (AMPT)—is reviewed. Examples of system improvements using evidence-based practices and adherence to both national and local utilization guidelines are also discussed. Summary Appropriate triage for HEMS use remains an important goal for developed trauma systems. Although associated with significant costs and safety concerns, recent literature has highlighted the association of HEMS with improved outcomes for trauma patients.
ISSN:2167-4817
2167-4817
DOI:10.1007/s40137-019-0239-8