The Development of Emergency Aeromedical Services for Sustainability in Emergency Care System in Tak Province, Thailand

Abstract

Emergency medical operations utilizing air transport in Tak Province have faced challenges over the past decade, which can be categorized into 3 stages: pre-transport preparation, air transport team operations, and ground transfer team operations. This study aimed to analyze these challenges and propose sustainable solutions by qualitative research methods as a guideline for the study include: a comprehensive review of relevant documents, in-depth interviews with 15 operational team members who had participated in at least 2 aeromedical transport missions, and group discussions with 5 support team members. Then summarize the proposed guidelines for further development. The CIPP Model (Context, Input, Process, and Product) was used to evaluate the performance of the aeromedical transport system. (1) Context evaluation revealed continuous development and a well-defined operational plan, with recommendations to align strategies with the Ministry of Public Health's policies. (2) Input evaluation identified the need to enhance aviation medicine expertise, improve the storage of medical supplies and equipment, increase personnel replacement rates, and provide better remuneration. (3) Process evaluation highlighted the importance of implementing satellite communication radios and real-time communication systems to address delays in coordination. (4) Product evaluation emphasized the alignment of operations with the Ministry of Public Health’s 2024 policy, "One Region, One Sky Doctor." The study recommends further research comparing outcomes with other regions and collecting data post-expansion of flight routes across Health Region 2, encompassing Tak, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, and Uttaradit.