[dhammo01]

I used to want to get into flight nursing, but man, with 3 helicoptors crashing in northern arizona these last weeks; I just don't know anymore. I've heard from others that it's pretty frequent that these helicoptors crash, you just don't hear about it all the time in the news. But in a half a year i've already heard about 4 medical helicoptor crashes in northern arizona. I think that's really sad.

-David

[EricEnfermero]

It's definitely sad. One good thing to come out of it will be increased awareness about the appropriate uses of air medical transport. This has been a big topic on EMS discussion boards in recent days.

There used to be a popular prehospital mantra: "When in doubt, fly 'em out!" Recently we're starting to see EMS providers more carefully consider the risks and benefits of flight versus ground transport.

[Boru]

1st of all I'd like to say, may all the victums of these tragedies rest in peace and our deepest condolances out to their families.

I've worked ground and air EMS transport in this state (as a medic). Matter of fact, I've worked on the same helicopter that just crashed out of Flagstaff. Yes, "When in doubt, fly them out" is a mantra I've heard 100's of times and it always drove me crazy. Originally working EMS on the east coast and understanding that EMS is just done differently here, I've always kept my mouth shut about the overuse of air transport in the phoenix metro area (among other things). But Fire and private EMS units call for "birds" like some of us call for a cab. I've been on both ends of it and 75% of the time it's an abuse of this resource or a complete waste of time.

I've worked ground EMS in the metro area and I really cannot think of many scenerios that justify a flight. Now when I've worked in Ajo, some of the southern parts of Gila River, Prescott, and Wickenburg, yes, there are patients out there that merit it (golden hour, time is muscle, etc...). But even the outer regions abuse the resource.

Not laying all the blame on EMS, Hospitals also oveuse helicopters... rooftop to rooftop transports are very common in phoenix among others.

But the flight companies are also to blame. Afterall, they are mostly private transport companies and are very competetive with one another since there are so many choices within the state. They are aggressive with their marketing and customer service campaigns.

I'm sure there was a legitimate need for the use of flight for ones that crashed. But it's only a matter of time before this starts happening in the metro area.

I'm sure this opinion will "ruffle some feathers"... but it is just my opinion and you are welcome to yours.