Recently, the Kentucky State Police reported on a motorcycle accident that occurred in Lockport. When troopers arrived on the scene, they discovered the motorcycle had collided with a deer. While paramedics pronounced the motorcycle’s passenger dead, they chose to transport the driver to the hospital in a helicopter.
If you have a catastrophic car accident, you undoubtedly want paramedics to do everything possible to save your life. When deciding whether to call for medical air transport, emergency responders often use the FALTER acronym.
Fear
If paramedics fear they lack the skills to care for a critical injury, they may use an air ambulance as a fail-safe. Still, by itself, fear is not usually a justifiable reason to call for medical air transport.
Access
Before opting for an air ambulance, emergency responders should be certain a helicopter can land. If moving the patient to a helicopter-accessible place would take too much time or endanger the patient, a traditional ambulance may be a better option.
Laziness
Paramedics should consider whether they are relying on air transport out of laziness. If the primary reason to use an air ambulance is to avoid the work that comes with transferring the patient in an ordinary ambulance, paramedics probably should not call for a helicopter.
Time
Time is arguably the most important factor in determining whether to request medical air transport. If the patient’s survival depends on getting him or her to the hospital as quickly as possible, an air ambulance is appropriate.
Extrication
Sometimes, patients are in a remote area that is difficult for motor vehicles to reach quickly. If the patient has less serious injuries but is stuck somewhere, paramedics often request air transportation.
Reality
Even though helicopters fly over traffic and obstructions, they are not always faster than regular ambulances. Consequently, before requesting medical air transport, paramedics should consider whether a helicopter is the fastest way to transport the patient to the hospital.
While an air ambulance may boost your chances of receiving the care you need to survive a serious motor vehicle accident, rides in helicopters are not cheap. Ultimately, pursuing financial compensation from the person who caused the accident may help you pay for your medical air transport.