Cas/Medevac in field area: An experience and lessons drawn

Abstract

Introduction: Success of Cas/Medevac missions depends on effective coordination between all agencies involved. The focus by medical authorities on the treatment and medical care at time leads to avoidable procedural complexity. Certain lessons are drawn from the United Nations (UNs) field areas for Cas/Medevac missions/laid down procedures and recommendations made for streamlining our own procedures. Materials and Methods: The data pertaining to Cas/Medevac details from IFH Level-II Malakal (UN Mission in South Sudan [UNMISS]) for January 2017 - February 2018 were collected and analyzed. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) followed in the UN field areas for Cas/Medevac missions were also studied and analyzed. Results and Discussion: A total of 19 cases were air evacuated from IFH Level-II UNMISS to higher medical establishments and 11 cases from periphery to IFH Level-II in 1 year plus period. Aeromedical issues involved are discussed here with emphasis on Medevac of patient with suspicion of hollow viscus perforation/pancreatitis. Procedures and documentation followed in the UN Medevac missions are discussed and suggestions made for improving Cas/ Medevac procedures in field areas. A sample of Cas/Medevac incremental information form is also suggested. Conclusion: Timely evacuation of a casualty to an appropriate medical establishment can reduce mortality and morbidity significantly. Experience of Cas/Medevac missions in the UN field area is presented in this paper along with analysis and discussion on SOPs followed in the UN mission areas. Suggestions are made to refine and streamline our own Cas/Medevac procedures in field areas and theaters of conflict.