India’s First Government-Run Helicopter Ambulance Service Successfully Delivers Critical Maternity Case to AIIMS Rishikesh
In a significant achievement, India’s first government-operated helicopter ambulance service, managed by AIIMS Rishikesh, successfully transported a high-risk pregnant woman from the Joshiyara area of Uttarkashi to AIIMS Rishikesh for delivery. A team of expert doctors from the Obstetrics Department performed the high-risk surgery successfully, ensuring the mother and baby are completely healthy. The patient will remain under observation for a few days before being discharged.
On Saturday, the pregnant woman, a resident of the Dhanari region in Uttarkashi, was airlifted from the Joshiyara helipad due to the unavailability of advanced surgical facilities in the region.
Specialist Medical Team’s Role
Dr. Om Kumari, a specialist in the Obstetrics Department, explained that the local medical facilities were inadequate for such a high-risk case, necessitating a referral to AIIMS Rishikesh. Under the observation of Dr. Om Kumari and Trauma SNO Akhilesh Uniyal, the patient was safely transported to AIIMS via the helicopter ambulance.
Free Emergency Medical Service
Dr. Madhur Uniyal, the nodal officer for AIIMS’ helicopter ambulance service, highlighted that this emergency service, operated with support from the state government, is entirely free for critically ill or emergency patients requiring immediate medical intervention.
Eligibility and Process
Senior Nursing Officer Akhilesh Uniyal stated that the service can be utilized for severely injured accident victims or critically ill patients. Such cases are referred to higher medical centers through district or state hospitals. Patients can avail of this service with administrative coordination.
Statewide Integration
This helicopter ambulance service is integrated with disaster management offices across all 13 districts of Uttarakhand. The AIIMS helicopter ambulance control room ensures seamless communication and coordination to provide timely emergency medical services.
