Rescue pilots can now provide medical treatment

Atlantic Airways’ so-called SAR/HEMS (Search & Rescue/Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) unit is on 24-hour standby 365 days a year.

The unit reached a major milestone when all its six pilots recently became licensed to administer three types of medicine in treating sick and injured people.

The training was provided by the Department of Occupational and Public Health.

“This is the greatest day for our helicopter service since we started the SAR/HEMS unit in 2001,” says Hans Erik Jakobsen, who heads the Atlantic Airways helicopter service.

 >> SEE ALSO Number of air rescue operations doubled

“It seemed like a very distant and unrealistic goal at first and having reached this goal now is just incredible.”

The medical licence needs to be renewed every six months, and the pilots will be undergoing continuous medical training with a view to expanding the types of medication they can use in their work.

In addition to the medical training, the crew takes part in weekly on- and offshore search and rescue training sessions.

Translated by prosa.fo