The long-read features in the March issue of AirMed&Rescue consider which options are available for search and rescue hoist crew members seeking to upgrade and maintain their skills to ensure the best outcomes for victims during rescue missions. With ongoing travel restrictions limiting training options for crews in some areas, what are providers doing to ensure crew competency?

When it comes to assessing risks, air ambulance pilots are experts, but what software do they need to support them in their missions? Operators from around the world, with expertise in fixed-wing and rotary operations, gave AirMed&Rescue their views.

Free, open access medical data and research could be an invaluable tool for going medical education of professionals in the aeromedical world, but what are the dangers of using social media to share data?  

Our industry experts giving their insights in this issue include US-based HEMS pilot Mike Biasatti, who shares what he thinks it takes to become an air medical aviator; Sean Bryan from REVA Air Ambulance, who describes how the medical team gets involved when it comes to converting a business jet into an air ambulance; and Dr Stephen Hearns, who was interviewed about his desire to educate medical professionals about the impact that stress has on their performance levels.

We also spoke to Inovytec about its innovative ventilator – the VentWay Sparrow – which is used by all the air ambulance services in Norway, and could be a game-changer for air medical operators.

Enjoy this issue!