title: Flying to the rescue: the Northern Region Surf Lifesaving Association Helicopter Rescue Service.
abstract: The Northern Region Surf Lifesaving Association Helicopter Rescue Service is one of the few aeromedical services in Australia mainly funded and staffed through the voluntary efforts of a local community. Since 1982 the service has flown over 600 missions without accident, rapidly responding to medical emergencies wherever they occur, and moving patients between hospitals whenever rapid and smooth transport has been essential--such as transferring people suffering from spinal and other severe injuries, premature babies, and women in premature or complicated labour. Increasing acceptance of the role of the helicopter amongst doctors and medical authorities has followed this impressive record. This article reviews the special abilities and purposes of the helicopter rescue service and points to its future role in the network of emergency care.
authors.affiliation: Surf Lifesaving Association Helicopter Rescue Service, Lismore, NSW.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Vidal
mesh_terms: D000401:Aircraft; D001315:Australia; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D014187:Transportation of Patients / Q000379:methods