Aeromedical transportation for infants and children.

Transfer of a critically ill child to a pediatric center is indicated when patient needs have exceeded local expertise or facilities. It is illogical to impose on the referring hospital the added burden of transporting such a patient. The receiving hospital is better equipped to extend its specialized services by assuming responsibility for interim management and transfer of the patient. An aeromedical transport system capable of quick response was built around National Guard helicopters. In 21 cases, doctors, nurses, and equipment were flown to children in community hospitals, and urgent treatment was begun in half the time formerly possible. Only after the patients were stabilized were they returned safely under continuing appropriate management. The helicopter is a versatile and speedy tool to deliver expertise and equipment when and where needed. Timely arrival of specialty services can be expected to improve patient care and salvage.