Dr Ina Schmidt1
1Icarus e.V.
Biography:
As a board-certified Anaesthetist, Intensivist, Emergency Physician, and ICU Flight Physician, Dr. Schmidt has over 16 years of experience in HEMS and ICU long-haul fixed-wing international air ambulance transportation.
In addition to her practical role, she is involved in the training and education of aeromedical professionals.
Her passion is palpable, especially when it comes to patient safety. She champions the necessity of medical guidelines and standards in aeromedical transport medicine, emphasizing the importance of research to develop evidence-based practices up in the air.
Abstract:
Aeromedical transport is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, enabling critically ill patients to access specialized care that may not be available locally. However, the decision to transport a patient—determining whether they are “fit to fly” or “unfit to stay”—is fraught with complexity and high stakes. This dilemma requires balancing clinical risks associated with transport against the consequences of remaining in a suboptimal medical setting.
This session critically examines the factors influencing these decisions, including patient-specific variables (e.g., hemodynamic stability, comorbidities, and risks associated with altitude physiology), operational constraints (e.g., cabin pressure, flight duration, and aircraft type), and external considerations (e.g., local healthcare capabilities and geographic remoteness). Through a series of illustrative case studies, we explore real-world scenarios where decisions to transport—or not—were pivotal to patient outcomes.
We analyse existing guidelines for aeromedical decision-making, identifying gaps and inconsistencies that can lead to suboptimal care. Emphasis is placed on the importance of evidence-based protocols, interdisciplinary collaboration among aeromedical teams, and robust communication between sending and receiving facilities. Furthermore, we advocate for the establishment of critical incident reporting systems specific to aeromedical transport to enhance understanding and mitigate risks in future cases.
By exploring the interplay of medical, logistical, and ethical considerations, this session aims to provide a structured framework for clinicians and operational teams to navigate these critical decisions. Ultimately, the session seeks to advance the field of aeromedical transport by promoting patient-centred care, reducing preventable risks, and fostering the development of standardized global protocols.