The Tasmanian Government has locked in a new 10-year, $78.7 million partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) to continue delivering vital fixed-wing aeromedical services across the State.
Under the agreement, RFDS Tasmania will provide fixed-wing aeromedical services in partnership with Ambulance Tasmania's Critical Care and Retrieval team, ensuring patients can be transferred safely between health facilities across Tasmania and interstate.
A new Beechcraft King Air B350 aircraft will be introduced, offering greater range, endurance and capacity for clinicians, patients, and accompanying family members.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Tasmanian Government is delivering for Tasmanians, with the long-term contract providing certainty for the community and health system.
"This new agreement ensures Tasmanians continue to receive world-class fixed-wing aeromedical retrieval services when they need them most," Minister Archer said.
"With new aircraft and long-term contracts now in place, our emergency air services are well-positioned to support Tasmanians for years to come.
"Our Government is delivering for Tasmania by ensuring people can access the right care, in the right place, at the right time."
Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania Chief Executive Officer, Nicole Henty, said the RFDS has been providing aeromedical evacuation services in Tasmania since the late 1950s.
"We are delighted that our contract to serve the people of Tasmania has been extended by another 10 years," Ms Henty said.
"As an organisation, our mission is to provide excellence in aeromedical and primary health care services, and this new contract enables us to continue doing just that."
