Abstract

It is hoped that this article has offered insightful suggestions and criteria in choosing the most appropriate method to transport patients. Ground ambulances, rotor-wing, and fixed-wing aircraft each have advantages and disadvantages in particular circumstances. The advantages and disadvantages of any mode of transport must be considered to best meet the needs of the patient. In the twentieth century alone, great strides have been made in the field of emergency stabilization and transport. An efficient, well-trained ground ambulance program remains the backbone of prehospital and interhospital transport systems. Helicopters and fixed-wing transports must be integrated into the EMS system. One advantage of the helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft is rapid travel times when time is critical. As Hicks et al said, "early resuscitation and timely transfer of selected patients are critical factors in reducing morbidity and mortality." The future holds many possibilities for enhanced patient transport. Hospitals may be able to use tilt-rotor, vertical landing, fixed-wing aircraft to combine the advantages of helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. After all, our primary goal is to get the right patient, with the right personnel, to the right place in the right amount of time.