The stretcher was modified for use in the Airvan by a MAF team in Mareeba (Qld). The $5000 final cost included delivery charges, duty and import fees.
The stretcher and its mounting system is fully compliant with Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations and has proved an invaluable support for East Timor Program Manager and pilot, Brad Sinclair. It has been used extensively since being fitted to the MAF aircraft last year.
The majority of MAF's work in East Timor is for the Ministry of Health.
Numerous flights deliver healthcare personnel and medicines to remote communities. Emergency medical flights (medivacs) are a frequent occurrence*.
The stretcher enables patients to be comfortably loaded on board and securely strapped-in for the duration of the flight. It is mounted on fixing points and can be easily moved in or out of the aircraft. Headsets are also available for the patient and/or carer enabling easy communication with the pilot.
Strapping accompanying the stretcher caters for patients of all ages and those with wide-ranging injuries or special needs. Design allows for carers or family members to sit comfortably alongside - important for the close monitoring of critically-ill patients.
Read more: http://www.maf.org.au/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=259&Itemid=212