NSW Ambulance has trialled the use of drones to enhance its aeromedical and special operations capabilities during search and rescue missions.
The two-month Remotely Piloted Aeromedical Clinical Systems (RPACS) trial, utilised cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care, operational safety and efficiency.
The trial has provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of drones in aeromedical missions, with a focus on improving both the speed and safety of operations in remote and difficult-to-reach locations.
Seven critical care paramedics and special operations team paramedics were specially trained to operate, maintain and deploy RPACS drones as part of search and rescue missions.
These drones can provide real-time aerial surveillance to improve situational awareness and support decision-making on critical incidents, leading to better patient outcomes.
The RPACS drones feature thermal imaging, high intensity search lights, the ability to carry essential items, and a loudspeaker to communicate with patients. Most importantly, the device can live stream to a secure link so a medical response can be managed from a remote location.
This sophisticated response can include the delivery of lifesaving medical supplies - including blood products, anti-venoms and external defibrillators - directly to patients up to 7km away in isolated environments, where immediate access by conventional means may not be possible.
This initiative was made possible through the NSW Ambulance partnership with Toll Aviation, and the support of the NSW Health Sustainable Futures Innovation Fund, which supports projects aimed at improving patient care while also reducing waste and emissions.
The RPACS technology will not only advance operational capabilities but also contribute to more sustainable practices through reducing demand on aeromedical helicopters.
A full evaluation of the trial is now underway, looking at environmental sustainability, operational outcomes, and future benefits of this technology to patient care and aeromedical operations.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Ryan Park:
"This is a very exciting initiative which unlocks a range of potential to improve our ability to reach patients in difficult-to-reach locations.
"These drones feature a range of capabilities to more effectively locate patients, communicate with them and deliver essential items.
"It allows aeromedical and special operations paramedics to make better decisions, and therefore, improve patient outcomes.
"I am so proud that NSW Ambulance is leading the way in the evolution of emergency healthcare."
Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:
"By integrating drones into our operations, this initiative allows us to innovate and reduce environmental impact while maintaining the high standards of emergency care our communities expect.
"RPACS drones can cover vast and challenging terrain rapidly and efficiently, ensuring that paramedics on the ground have access to real-time data that can help save lives."
