Complements the local road ambulance services by providing rapid emergency aero-medical transportation of patients who are critically ill or injured.
-
-
-
Cyclists airlifted in a critical condition
03 March 2020: The Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter airlifted a cyclist in a serious condition from Simon's Town to Vincent Palotti. Images courtesy Rob de Wet.
Cyclists airlifted in a critical condition
03 March 2020: The Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter airlifted a cyclist in a serious condition from Simon's Town to Vincent Palotti. Images courtesy Rob de Wet.
Cyclists airlifted in a critical condition
-
-
-
Cyclists airlifted in a critical condition
03 March 2020: The Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter airlifted a cyclist in a serious condition from Simon's Town to Vincent Palotti. Images courtesy Rob de Wet.
Cyclists airlifted in a critical condition
03 March 2020: The Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter airlifted a cyclist in a serious condition from Simon's Town to Vincent Palotti. Images courtesy Rob de Wet.
-
Meet our team ...
Today we introduce Simoné Theunissen, newly appointed Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) at our Oudtshoorn base. Simoné a true adventurist, has been with the organisation for approximately two months, here’s a look into her world ...
Who is Simoné Theunissen: “I was born in Krugersdorp, moved to George when I was nine and grew up on a farm. I completed my Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care (BEMC) degree at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Port Elizabeth.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “It has been my dream to work at AMS since I started studying. I love the mountains, I have a keen interest in rescue and aviation medicine. I love flying and AMS provides me with the opportunity to combine all my passions.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To become an external load operator.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming and building puzzles.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I am a sensitive viewer; I cry when watching sad movies.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Flying and doing rescues.”
What is on your bedside table? “My Bible, journal and lamp.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Jesus Christ, Edmund Hillary, Mother Teresa, Bare Grills and Dr Chris Barnard.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “What is the worst thing you have seen thus far? I hate that question. The job is so much more than that!”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “When I assisted with my first mountain rescue on a hike near Formosa peak in 2017.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “To become a wildlife veterinarian.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Exercise.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Determination.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “My Grandma said; ń aanhouer wen!”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Life is short, so live it to the fullest!”
Meet our team ...
Today we introduce Simoné Theunissen, newly appointed Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) at our Oudtshoorn base. Simoné a true adventurist, has been with the organisation for approximately two months, here’s a look into her world ...
Who is Simoné Theunissen: “I was born in Krugersdorp, moved to George when I was nine and grew up on a farm. I completed my Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care (BEMC) degree at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Port Elizabeth.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “It has been my dream to work at AMS since I started studying. I love the mountains, I have a keen interest in rescue and aviation medicine. I love flying and AMS provides me with the opportunity to combine all my passions.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To become an external load operator.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming and building puzzles.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I am a sensitive viewer; I cry when watching sad movies.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Flying and doing rescues.”
What is on your bedside table? “My Bible, journal and lamp.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Jesus Christ, Edmund Hillary, Mother Teresa, Bare Grills and Dr Chris Barnard.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “What is the worst thing you have seen thus far? I hate that question. The job is so much more than that!”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “When I assisted with my first mountain rescue on a hike near Formosa peak in 2017.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “To become a wildlife veterinarian.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Exercise.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Determination.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “My Grandma said; ń aanhouer wen!”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Life is short, so live it to the fullest!”
Meet our team ...
-
Meet our team ...
Today we introduce Simoné Theunissen, newly appointed Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) at our Oudtshoorn base. Simoné a true adventurist, has been with the organisation for approximately two months, here’s a look into her world ...
Who is Simoné Theunissen: “I was born in Krugersdorp, moved to George when I was nine and grew up on a farm. I completed my Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care (BEMC) degree at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Port Elizabeth.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “It has been my dream to work at AMS since I started studying. I love the mountains, I have a keen interest in rescue and aviation medicine. I love flying and AMS provides me with the opportunity to combine all my passions.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To become an external load operator.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming and building puzzles.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I am a sensitive viewer; I cry when watching sad movies.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Flying and doing rescues.”
What is on your bedside table? “My Bible, journal and lamp.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Jesus Christ, Edmund Hillary, Mother Teresa, Bare Grills and Dr Chris Barnard.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “What is the worst thing you have seen thus far? I hate that question. The job is so much more than that!”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “When I assisted with my first mountain rescue on a hike near Formosa peak in 2017.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “To become a wildlife veterinarian.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Exercise.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Determination.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “My Grandma said; ń aanhouer wen!”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Life is short, so live it to the fullest!”
Meet our team ...
Today we introduce Simoné Theunissen, newly appointed Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) at our Oudtshoorn base. Simoné a true adventurist, has been with the organisation for approximately two months, here’s a look into her world ...
Who is Simoné Theunissen: “I was born in Krugersdorp, moved to George when I was nine and grew up on a farm. I completed my Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care (BEMC) degree at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Port Elizabeth.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “It has been my dream to work at AMS since I started studying. I love the mountains, I have a keen interest in rescue and aviation medicine. I love flying and AMS provides me with the opportunity to combine all my passions.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To become an external load operator.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming and building puzzles.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I am a sensitive viewer; I cry when watching sad movies.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Flying and doing rescues.”
What is on your bedside table? “My Bible, journal and lamp.”
If you could have dinner with five famous people from history, who would they be? “Jesus Christ, Edmund Hillary, Mother Teresa, Bare Grills and Dr Chris Barnard.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “What is the worst thing you have seen thus far? I hate that question. The job is so much more than that!”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “When I assisted with my first mountain rescue on a hike near Formosa peak in 2017.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “To become a wildlife veterinarian.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Exercise.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Determination.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “My Grandma said; ń aanhouer wen!”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Life is short, so live it to the fullest!”
-
Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service is proud to collaborate with experts from various healthcare fields and institutions to provide world class training in Cape Town, South Africa.
We are currently taking bookings for the Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
This five day course is an exciting mix of case-based learning, theoretical teaching and hands on practicals designed to equip paramedics, nurses and doctors to practice evidence based aviation medicine.
For more information and bookings click https://www.quicket.co.za/events/96176-aviation-healthcare-provider-workshop-2020/?fbclid=IwAR1AtvS8XcFX6ZvdhmNUQrPvjsuHJe27P7JaRrm7nAioBNPbbcb0ZXJQm5Y#/
More training dates launching soon for:
AHA Basic Life Support
AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support
Introduction to Aviation Medicine (1 day)
Advanced Airway Management workshop
Ventilation Workshop
Critical Care Retrieval workshops
Recognition, Stabilization and transfer of the congenital cardiac child
Maternal Emergencies in transit
For all training enquiries please email: training@ams.org.za
Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
-
Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service is proud to collaborate with experts from various healthcare fields and institutions to provide world class training in Cape Town, South Africa.
We are currently taking bookings for the Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
This five day course is an exciting mix of case-based learning, theoretical teaching and hands on practicals designed to equip paramedics, nurses and doctors to practice evidence based aviation medicine.
For more information and bookings click https://www.quicket.co.za/events/96176-aviation-healthcare-provider-workshop-2020/?fbclid=IwAR1AtvS8XcFX6ZvdhmNUQrPvjsuHJe27P7JaRrm7nAioBNPbbcb0ZXJQm5Y#/
More training dates launching soon for:
AHA Basic Life Support
AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support
Introduction to Aviation Medicine (1 day)
Advanced Airway Management workshop
Ventilation Workshop
Critical Care Retrieval workshops
Recognition, Stabilization and transfer of the congenital cardiac child
Maternal Emergencies in transit
For all training enquiries please email: training@ams.org.za
Aviation for Healthcare Providers Course.
-
-
Body recovered from Voëlklip viewpoint in Herolds Bay
29 January 2020: Sadly another life lost this morning at the Voëlklip viewpoint near Herold’s Bay. The Oudtshoorn Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS aero-medical rescue crew earlier recovered the body of a male patient after his vehicle plunged down the cliff. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased. Images courtesy Theo Schilder.
Body recovered from Voëlklip viewpoint in Herolds Bay
29 January 2020: Sadly another life lost this morning at the Voëlklip viewpoint near Herold’s Bay. The Oudtshoorn Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS aero-medical rescue crew earlier recovered the body of a male patient after his vehicle plunged down the cliff. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased. Images courtesy Theo Schilder.
Body recovered from Voëlklip viewpoint in Herolds Bay
-
-
Body recovered from Voëlklip viewpoint in Herolds Bay
29 January 2020: Sadly another life lost this morning at the Voëlklip viewpoint near Herold’s Bay. The Oudtshoorn Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS aero-medical rescue crew earlier recovered the body of a male patient after his vehicle plunged down the cliff. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased. Images courtesy Theo Schilder.
Body recovered from Voëlklip viewpoint in Herolds Bay
29 January 2020: Sadly another life lost this morning at the Voëlklip viewpoint near Herold’s Bay. The Oudtshoorn Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS aero-medical rescue crew earlier recovered the body of a male patient after his vehicle plunged down the cliff. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased. Images courtesy Theo Schilder.
-
-
-
Busy day for KZN Helicopter Emergency Medical Service
It's been a busy day and night for the KwaZulu-Natal helicopter emergency medical service. Mercy Wing 5 undertook three missions yesterday; two MVA's the first between Verulam & Phoenix, the second MVA was on the South Coast, the patient was airlifted to Ethekwini Hospital & Heart Centre. The crew was busy until the early hours of this morning with the third call, airlifting a patient from Hlabisa Provincial Hospital to St. Augustine's Hospital. Unfortunately due to the service being so busy a fourth mission could not be serviced. The Night Vision Systems introduced into the helicopter operation allows the AMS to ensure that the community has access to the helicopter 24 hours a day. AMS committed to building and developing the South African health system! Images courtesy: Captains Kim Watchurst & Rob Fenega
Busy day for KZN Helicopter Emergency Medical Service
It's been a busy day and night for the KwaZulu-Natal helicopter emergency medical service. Mercy Wing 5 undertook three missions yesterday; two MVA's the first between Verulam & Phoenix, the second MVA was on the South Coast, the patient was airlifted to Ethekwini Hospital & Heart Centre. The crew was busy until the early hours of this morning with the third call, airlifting a patient from Hlabisa Provincial Hospital to St. Augustine's Hospital. Unfortunately due to the service being so busy a fourth mission could not be serviced. The Night Vision Systems introduced into the helicopter operation allows the AMS to ensure that the community has access to the helicopter 24 hours a day. AMS committed to building and developing the South African health system! Images courtesy: Captains Kim Watchurst & Rob Fenega
Busy day for KZN Helicopter Emergency Medical Service
-
-
-
Busy day for KZN Helicopter Emergency Medical Service
It's been a busy day and night for the KwaZulu-Natal helicopter emergency medical service. Mercy Wing 5 undertook three missions yesterday; two MVA's the first between Verulam & Phoenix, the second MVA was on the South Coast, the patient was airlifted to Ethekwini Hospital & Heart Centre. The crew was busy until the early hours of this morning with the third call, airlifting a patient from Hlabisa Provincial Hospital to St. Augustine's Hospital. Unfortunately due to the service being so busy a fourth mission could not be serviced. The Night Vision Systems introduced into the helicopter operation allows the AMS to ensure that the community has access to the helicopter 24 hours a day. AMS committed to building and developing the South African health system! Images courtesy: Captains Kim Watchurst & Rob Fenega
Busy day for KZN Helicopter Emergency Medical Service
It's been a busy day and night for the KwaZulu-Natal helicopter emergency medical service. Mercy Wing 5 undertook three missions yesterday; two MVA's the first between Verulam & Phoenix, the second MVA was on the South Coast, the patient was airlifted to Ethekwini Hospital & Heart Centre. The crew was busy until the early hours of this morning with the third call, airlifting a patient from Hlabisa Provincial Hospital to St. Augustine's Hospital. Unfortunately due to the service being so busy a fourth mission could not be serviced. The Night Vision Systems introduced into the helicopter operation allows the AMS to ensure that the community has access to the helicopter 24 hours a day. AMS committed to building and developing the South African health system! Images courtesy: Captains Kim Watchurst & Rob Fenega
-
-
-
Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast
Air Mercy Service Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast to airlift a stroke victim to Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital. Doctor and Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) crew on-board. Time is of the essence. AMS Changing lives, saving lives!
Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast
Air Mercy Service Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast to airlift a stroke victim to Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital. Doctor and Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) crew on-board. Time is of the essence. AMS Changing lives, saving lives!
Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast
-
-
-
Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast
Air Mercy Service Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast to airlift a stroke victim to Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital. Doctor and Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) crew on-board. Time is of the essence. AMS Changing lives, saving lives!
Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast
Air Mercy Service Mercy Wing 5 dispatched to the South Coast to airlift a stroke victim to Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital. Doctor and Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) crew on-board. Time is of the essence. AMS Changing lives, saving lives!
-
Helicopter Emergeny Service (HEMS) available in KwaZulu-Natal
Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS) now available in KwaZulu-Natal.
Contact 0861 267 267
e-mail: noc@ams.org.za
Helicopter Emergeny Service (HEMS) available in KwaZulu-Natal
Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS) now available in KwaZulu-Natal.
Contact 0861 267 267
e-mail: noc@ams.org.za
Helicopter Emergeny Service (HEMS) available in KwaZulu-Natal
-
Helicopter Emergeny Service (HEMS) available in KwaZulu-Natal
Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS) now available in KwaZulu-Natal.
Contact 0861 267 267
e-mail: noc@ams.org.za
Helicopter Emergeny Service (HEMS) available in KwaZulu-Natal
Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS) now available in KwaZulu-Natal.
Contact 0861 267 267
e-mail: noc@ams.org.za
-
-
-
Cataract Surgery Programme kicks off in KwaZulu-Natal
AMS is proud to be associated with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Al-Imdaad Foundation. It has been more than two years in planning and preparation, but finally it has arrived. A three-month long cataract surgery programme brought about by a partnership between the Al-Imdaad Foundation, the KZN Department of Health, Air Mercy Services and volunteer doctors from Turkish NGO, Alliance of International Doctors (AID). The cataract programme is part of the Al-Imdaad Foundation's Vision-4-Life eye care initiative which also includes a free eye clinic, which has seen over 2000 patients in two years of operation.
On October 7th, 2019, the volunteer doctors were flown into the cataract programme briefing session at the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital by Air Mercy Personnel.
At the briefing, Al-Imdaad Foundation’s special projects coordinator, Mr Abed Karrim described the build up to the programme saying, “For two and a half years my team and I have been in and out of Pretoria to secure accreditation for the foreign doctors from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We’ve had a lot of cooperation from Health Departments at all levels and finally the team is able to be here today”.
Mr Karrim went on to say that their mission was simple: “We are here to join hands to enable Vision-4-Life, this is the vision of the leadership of the Al-Imdaad Foundation- our Chairman Maulana Chohan and our trustees. They have said to us, go out there, work hand in hand with the Department of Health, work hand in hand for the community.”
Areas have been identified where there are significant backlogs of patients awaiting cataract surgeries. Public eye facilities at hospitals in Northern Natal will be used for the programme and local support staff and nurses will assist the Turkish team.
Dr T Zulu, an official from uThukela District Health described how the volunteer doctors would be greatly appreciated as some districts had significant backlogs due to a lack of personnel. Dr Zulu also said, “completing back-logs is not just about numbers. It is a quality of life issue and a human rights issue. If there is a two thousand backlog you know how you would feel if there’s a cataract and there are no operations until you are blind. So, we are very happy that we finally have these volunteers to assist us.”
The doctors from Alliance of International Doctors (AID) have had extensive experience conducting cataract surgeries in sub- Saharan Africa. The lead ophthalmic surgeon, Dr Mehmet Aslan previously spent eight months in Niger where he completed thousands of surgeries. During his three-month stay in South Africa, Dr Mehmet aims to make a significant impact on the backlogs.
Dr Mehmet said, “We were all excited to join. This project is quite prestigious for us. So, if we can accomplish this, I can assure you that there are many more volunteer doctors willing to come whenever you want. We are ready to perform the surgeries.”
After thanking all role players, Al-Imdaad Foundation CEO Yacoob Vahed also spoke encouraging words saying:
“I would like to thank everyone who made this significant project possible. Even though there has been a lot of negativity around our beautiful country recently, I believe by working together we can make a real difference. For us this is only the beginning, we hope to be able to bring in more volunteer doctors- both locals and from abroad, to help take this project to other parts of the country.”
The Al-Imdaad Foundation’s Vision-4-Life cataract programme will be running in the last quarter of 2019 with surgeries planned in the uThukela, iLembe and uMzinyathi districts of KwaZulu-Natal. For more information about the programme or to support these initiatives please call 0861786243.
Cataract Surgery Programme kicks off in KwaZulu-Natal
AMS is proud to be associated with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Al-Imdaad Foundation. It has been more than two years in planning and preparation, but finally it has arrived. A three-month long cataract surgery programme brought about by a partnership between the Al-Imdaad Foundation, the KZN Department of Health, Air Mercy Services and volunteer doctors from Turkish NGO, Alliance of International Doctors (AID). The cataract programme is part of the Al-Imdaad Foundation's Vision-4-Life eye care initiative which also includes a free eye clinic, which has seen over 2000 patients in two years of operation.
On October 7th, 2019, the volunteer doctors were flown into the cataract programme briefing session at the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital by Air Mercy Personnel.
At the briefing, Al-Imdaad Foundation’s special projects coordinator, Mr Abed Karrim described the build up to the programme saying, “For two and a half years my team and I have been in and out of Pretoria to secure accreditation for the foreign doctors from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We’ve had a lot of cooperation from Health Departments at all levels and finally the team is able to be here today”.
Mr Karrim went on to say that their mission was simple: “We are here to join hands to enable Vision-4-Life, this is the vision of the leadership of the Al-Imdaad Foundation- our Chairman Maulana Chohan and our trustees. They have said to us, go out there, work hand in hand with the Department of Health, work hand in hand for the community.”
Areas have been identified where there are significant backlogs of patients awaiting cataract surgeries. Public eye facilities at hospitals in Northern Natal will be used for the programme and local support staff and nurses will assist the Turkish team.
Dr T Zulu, an official from uThukela District Health described how the volunteer doctors would be greatly appreciated as some districts had significant backlogs due to a lack of personnel. Dr Zulu also said, “completing back-logs is not just about numbers. It is a quality of life issue and a human rights issue. If there is a two thousand backlog you know how you would feel if there’s a cataract and there are no operations until you are blind. So, we are very happy that we finally have these volunteers to assist us.”
The doctors from Alliance of International Doctors (AID) have had extensive experience conducting cataract surgeries in sub- Saharan Africa. The lead ophthalmic surgeon, Dr Mehmet Aslan previously spent eight months in Niger where he completed thousands of surgeries. During his three-month stay in South Africa, Dr Mehmet aims to make a significant impact on the backlogs.
Dr Mehmet said, “We were all excited to join. This project is quite prestigious for us. So, if we can accomplish this, I can assure you that there are many more volunteer doctors willing to come whenever you want. We are ready to perform the surgeries.”
After thanking all role players, Al-Imdaad Foundation CEO Yacoob Vahed also spoke encouraging words saying:
“I would like to thank everyone who made this significant project possible. Even though there has been a lot of negativity around our beautiful country recently, I believe by working together we can make a real difference. For us this is only the beginning, we hope to be able to bring in more volunteer doctors- both locals and from abroad, to help take this project to other parts of the country.”
The Al-Imdaad Foundation’s Vision-4-Life cataract programme will be running in the last quarter of 2019 with surgeries planned in the uThukela, iLembe and uMzinyathi districts of KwaZulu-Natal. For more information about the programme or to support these initiatives please call 0861786243.
Cataract Surgery Programme kicks off in KwaZulu-Natal
-
-
-
Cataract Surgery Programme kicks off in KwaZulu-Natal
AMS is proud to be associated with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Al-Imdaad Foundation. It has been more than two years in planning and preparation, but finally it has arrived. A three-month long cataract surgery programme brought about by a partnership between the Al-Imdaad Foundation, the KZN Department of Health, Air Mercy Services and volunteer doctors from Turkish NGO, Alliance of International Doctors (AID). The cataract programme is part of the Al-Imdaad Foundation's Vision-4-Life eye care initiative which also includes a free eye clinic, which has seen over 2000 patients in two years of operation.
On October 7th, 2019, the volunteer doctors were flown into the cataract programme briefing session at the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital by Air Mercy Personnel.
At the briefing, Al-Imdaad Foundation’s special projects coordinator, Mr Abed Karrim described the build up to the programme saying, “For two and a half years my team and I have been in and out of Pretoria to secure accreditation for the foreign doctors from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We’ve had a lot of cooperation from Health Departments at all levels and finally the team is able to be here today”.
Mr Karrim went on to say that their mission was simple: “We are here to join hands to enable Vision-4-Life, this is the vision of the leadership of the Al-Imdaad Foundation- our Chairman Maulana Chohan and our trustees. They have said to us, go out there, work hand in hand with the Department of Health, work hand in hand for the community.”
Areas have been identified where there are significant backlogs of patients awaiting cataract surgeries. Public eye facilities at hospitals in Northern Natal will be used for the programme and local support staff and nurses will assist the Turkish team.
Dr T Zulu, an official from uThukela District Health described how the volunteer doctors would be greatly appreciated as some districts had significant backlogs due to a lack of personnel. Dr Zulu also said, “completing back-logs is not just about numbers. It is a quality of life issue and a human rights issue. If there is a two thousand backlog you know how you would feel if there’s a cataract and there are no operations until you are blind. So, we are very happy that we finally have these volunteers to assist us.”
The doctors from Alliance of International Doctors (AID) have had extensive experience conducting cataract surgeries in sub- Saharan Africa. The lead ophthalmic surgeon, Dr Mehmet Aslan previously spent eight months in Niger where he completed thousands of surgeries. During his three-month stay in South Africa, Dr Mehmet aims to make a significant impact on the backlogs.
Dr Mehmet said, “We were all excited to join. This project is quite prestigious for us. So, if we can accomplish this, I can assure you that there are many more volunteer doctors willing to come whenever you want. We are ready to perform the surgeries.”
After thanking all role players, Al-Imdaad Foundation CEO Yacoob Vahed also spoke encouraging words saying:
“I would like to thank everyone who made this significant project possible. Even though there has been a lot of negativity around our beautiful country recently, I believe by working together we can make a real difference. For us this is only the beginning, we hope to be able to bring in more volunteer doctors- both locals and from abroad, to help take this project to other parts of the country.”
The Al-Imdaad Foundation’s Vision-4-Life cataract programme will be running in the last quarter of 2019 with surgeries planned in the uThukela, iLembe and uMzinyathi districts of KwaZulu-Natal. For more information about the programme or to support these initiatives please call 0861786243.
Cataract Surgery Programme kicks off in KwaZulu-Natal
AMS is proud to be associated with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Al-Imdaad Foundation. It has been more than two years in planning and preparation, but finally it has arrived. A three-month long cataract surgery programme brought about by a partnership between the Al-Imdaad Foundation, the KZN Department of Health, Air Mercy Services and volunteer doctors from Turkish NGO, Alliance of International Doctors (AID). The cataract programme is part of the Al-Imdaad Foundation's Vision-4-Life eye care initiative which also includes a free eye clinic, which has seen over 2000 patients in two years of operation.
On October 7th, 2019, the volunteer doctors were flown into the cataract programme briefing session at the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital by Air Mercy Personnel.
At the briefing, Al-Imdaad Foundation’s special projects coordinator, Mr Abed Karrim described the build up to the programme saying, “For two and a half years my team and I have been in and out of Pretoria to secure accreditation for the foreign doctors from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We’ve had a lot of cooperation from Health Departments at all levels and finally the team is able to be here today”.
Mr Karrim went on to say that their mission was simple: “We are here to join hands to enable Vision-4-Life, this is the vision of the leadership of the Al-Imdaad Foundation- our Chairman Maulana Chohan and our trustees. They have said to us, go out there, work hand in hand with the Department of Health, work hand in hand for the community.”
Areas have been identified where there are significant backlogs of patients awaiting cataract surgeries. Public eye facilities at hospitals in Northern Natal will be used for the programme and local support staff and nurses will assist the Turkish team.
Dr T Zulu, an official from uThukela District Health described how the volunteer doctors would be greatly appreciated as some districts had significant backlogs due to a lack of personnel. Dr Zulu also said, “completing back-logs is not just about numbers. It is a quality of life issue and a human rights issue. If there is a two thousand backlog you know how you would feel if there’s a cataract and there are no operations until you are blind. So, we are very happy that we finally have these volunteers to assist us.”
The doctors from Alliance of International Doctors (AID) have had extensive experience conducting cataract surgeries in sub- Saharan Africa. The lead ophthalmic surgeon, Dr Mehmet Aslan previously spent eight months in Niger where he completed thousands of surgeries. During his three-month stay in South Africa, Dr Mehmet aims to make a significant impact on the backlogs.
Dr Mehmet said, “We were all excited to join. This project is quite prestigious for us. So, if we can accomplish this, I can assure you that there are many more volunteer doctors willing to come whenever you want. We are ready to perform the surgeries.”
After thanking all role players, Al-Imdaad Foundation CEO Yacoob Vahed also spoke encouraging words saying:
“I would like to thank everyone who made this significant project possible. Even though there has been a lot of negativity around our beautiful country recently, I believe by working together we can make a real difference. For us this is only the beginning, we hope to be able to bring in more volunteer doctors- both locals and from abroad, to help take this project to other parts of the country.”
The Al-Imdaad Foundation’s Vision-4-Life cataract programme will be running in the last quarter of 2019 with surgeries planned in the uThukela, iLembe and uMzinyathi districts of KwaZulu-Natal. For more information about the programme or to support these initiatives please call 0861786243.
-
-
-
-
Busy rescue weekend for Cape Town rescue crew
It's been a busy weekend for the Cape Town Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter. 6 rescues took place over the busy weekend, rescues were conducted in Kirstenbosch, on Lions Head and Skeleton Gorge. Thank you to our rescue crew and partner organisations for your dedication. Well done Shukri Petersen on your first rescues as external load operator (elo). Thank you Dr. Matthew Young, Anwaaz Bent and all the individuals for sharing your photographs with us.
Busy rescue weekend for Cape Town rescue crew
It's been a busy weekend for the Cape Town Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter. 6 rescues took place over the busy weekend, rescues were conducted in Kirstenbosch, on Lions Head and Skeleton Gorge. Thank you to our rescue crew and partner organisations for your dedication. Well done Shukri Petersen on your first rescues as external load operator (elo). Thank you Dr. Matthew Young, Anwaaz Bent and all the individuals for sharing your photographs with us.
Busy rescue weekend for Cape Town rescue crew
-
-
-
-
Busy rescue weekend for Cape Town rescue crew
It's been a busy weekend for the Cape Town Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter. 6 rescues took place over the busy weekend, rescues were conducted in Kirstenbosch, on Lions Head and Skeleton Gorge. Thank you to our rescue crew and partner organisations for your dedication. Well done Shukri Petersen on your first rescues as external load operator (elo). Thank you Dr. Matthew Young, Anwaaz Bent and all the individuals for sharing your photographs with us.
Busy rescue weekend for Cape Town rescue crew
It's been a busy weekend for the Cape Town Western Cape Department of Health EMS/AMS rescue helicopter. 6 rescues took place over the busy weekend, rescues were conducted in Kirstenbosch, on Lions Head and Skeleton Gorge. Thank you to our rescue crew and partner organisations for your dedication. Well done Shukri Petersen on your first rescues as external load operator (elo). Thank you Dr. Matthew Young, Anwaaz Bent and all the individuals for sharing your photographs with us.
-
AMS Board of Trustees
As we reached the end of South Africa commemorating Women’s Month, The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service Trust (AMS) is proud to announce the addition of two female Board members to the Board of Trustees. Advocate Adila Hassim and Professor Lineo Mazwi-Tanga joins the diverse Board that provides leadership to the AMS for carrying out the organisation’s purpose to facilitate pluriversal access to healthcare to those rendered most vulnerable by geographical, social or economic inequity. “The AMS is excited to have the expertise of these two dynamic Board members with a broad range of business skills that will assist the organisation to continue to support the National Health System, by ensuring access to healthcare for all South Africans” said Dr Philip Erasmus, AMS CEO.
Advocate Adila Hassim holds numerous awards and is amongst others a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and holds chambers at Thulamela Group of Advocates. Advocate Hassim co-founded SECTION27, a public interest law organisation that defends the rights of health, education and food. She served as its Director of Litigation until 2017. She is also a founding director of Corruption Watch and a Trustee of the Constitutional Hill Trust. She is a former law clerk to Deputy Chief Justice Pius Langa, as well as Justice Edwin Cameron.
Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga was at the helm of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) for eight years and holds the title of CPUT’s first Rector and Vice-Chancellor. Her experience as an educationist began in the Eastern Cape, where she taught Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology at several high schools. An invitation to serve in the Ministry of Education as a Ministerial Advisor to Minister Kader Asmal, introduced Professor Mazwi-Tanga to systems in national higher education, something which served her well when she assumed the position of leadership of CPUT. Professor Mazwi-Tanga retired as Vice Chancellor in December 2013. She currently serves as one of the Advocates for Social Cohesion, Nation Building and Democracy that is driven through the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
The AMS Board of Trustees is steered by Chairman, Mr. Gideon Sam and comprises of Board Member, Adv. Adila Hassim, Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga, Mr. René de Wet, Prof. Shepherd Mayatula, Mr. Geoffrey Qhena, Mr. Alan Marshall, Mr. Ray ka Msengana and Mr. Lwazi Mboyi. “We look forward to the insights under the leadership of our Board of Trustees with unique and diverse backgrounds and experiences that will make them an asset to the organisation in pursuing our mission to building a national asset for our country by ensuring that healthcare reaches all South Africans” Dr Philip Erasmus concluded.
AMS Board of Trustees
As we reached the end of South Africa commemorating Women’s Month, The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service Trust (AMS) is proud to announce the addition of two female Board members to the Board of Trustees. Advocate Adila Hassim and Professor Lineo Mazwi-Tanga joins the diverse Board that provides leadership to the AMS for carrying out the organisation’s purpose to facilitate pluriversal access to healthcare to those rendered most vulnerable by geographical, social or economic inequity. “The AMS is excited to have the expertise of these two dynamic Board members with a broad range of business skills that will assist the organisation to continue to support the National Health System, by ensuring access to healthcare for all South Africans” said Dr Philip Erasmus, AMS CEO.
Advocate Adila Hassim holds numerous awards and is amongst others a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and holds chambers at Thulamela Group of Advocates. Advocate Hassim co-founded SECTION27, a public interest law organisation that defends the rights of health, education and food. She served as its Director of Litigation until 2017. She is also a founding director of Corruption Watch and a Trustee of the Constitutional Hill Trust. She is a former law clerk to Deputy Chief Justice Pius Langa, as well as Justice Edwin Cameron.
Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga was at the helm of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) for eight years and holds the title of CPUT’s first Rector and Vice-Chancellor. Her experience as an educationist began in the Eastern Cape, where she taught Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology at several high schools. An invitation to serve in the Ministry of Education as a Ministerial Advisor to Minister Kader Asmal, introduced Professor Mazwi-Tanga to systems in national higher education, something which served her well when she assumed the position of leadership of CPUT. Professor Mazwi-Tanga retired as Vice Chancellor in December 2013. She currently serves as one of the Advocates for Social Cohesion, Nation Building and Democracy that is driven through the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
The AMS Board of Trustees is steered by Chairman, Mr. Gideon Sam and comprises of Board Member, Adv. Adila Hassim, Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga, Mr. René de Wet, Prof. Shepherd Mayatula, Mr. Geoffrey Qhena, Mr. Alan Marshall, Mr. Ray ka Msengana and Mr. Lwazi Mboyi. “We look forward to the insights under the leadership of our Board of Trustees with unique and diverse backgrounds and experiences that will make them an asset to the organisation in pursuing our mission to building a national asset for our country by ensuring that healthcare reaches all South Africans” Dr Philip Erasmus concluded.
AMS Board of Trustees
-
AMS Board of Trustees
As we reached the end of South Africa commemorating Women’s Month, The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service Trust (AMS) is proud to announce the addition of two female Board members to the Board of Trustees. Advocate Adila Hassim and Professor Lineo Mazwi-Tanga joins the diverse Board that provides leadership to the AMS for carrying out the organisation’s purpose to facilitate pluriversal access to healthcare to those rendered most vulnerable by geographical, social or economic inequity. “The AMS is excited to have the expertise of these two dynamic Board members with a broad range of business skills that will assist the organisation to continue to support the National Health System, by ensuring access to healthcare for all South Africans” said Dr Philip Erasmus, AMS CEO.
Advocate Adila Hassim holds numerous awards and is amongst others a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and holds chambers at Thulamela Group of Advocates. Advocate Hassim co-founded SECTION27, a public interest law organisation that defends the rights of health, education and food. She served as its Director of Litigation until 2017. She is also a founding director of Corruption Watch and a Trustee of the Constitutional Hill Trust. She is a former law clerk to Deputy Chief Justice Pius Langa, as well as Justice Edwin Cameron.
Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga was at the helm of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) for eight years and holds the title of CPUT’s first Rector and Vice-Chancellor. Her experience as an educationist began in the Eastern Cape, where she taught Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology at several high schools. An invitation to serve in the Ministry of Education as a Ministerial Advisor to Minister Kader Asmal, introduced Professor Mazwi-Tanga to systems in national higher education, something which served her well when she assumed the position of leadership of CPUT. Professor Mazwi-Tanga retired as Vice Chancellor in December 2013. She currently serves as one of the Advocates for Social Cohesion, Nation Building and Democracy that is driven through the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
The AMS Board of Trustees is steered by Chairman, Mr. Gideon Sam and comprises of Board Member, Adv. Adila Hassim, Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga, Mr. René de Wet, Prof. Shepherd Mayatula, Mr. Geoffrey Qhena, Mr. Alan Marshall, Mr. Ray ka Msengana and Mr. Lwazi Mboyi. “We look forward to the insights under the leadership of our Board of Trustees with unique and diverse backgrounds and experiences that will make them an asset to the organisation in pursuing our mission to building a national asset for our country by ensuring that healthcare reaches all South Africans” Dr Philip Erasmus concluded.
AMS Board of Trustees
As we reached the end of South Africa commemorating Women’s Month, The SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service Trust (AMS) is proud to announce the addition of two female Board members to the Board of Trustees. Advocate Adila Hassim and Professor Lineo Mazwi-Tanga joins the diverse Board that provides leadership to the AMS for carrying out the organisation’s purpose to facilitate pluriversal access to healthcare to those rendered most vulnerable by geographical, social or economic inequity. “The AMS is excited to have the expertise of these two dynamic Board members with a broad range of business skills that will assist the organisation to continue to support the National Health System, by ensuring access to healthcare for all South Africans” said Dr Philip Erasmus, AMS CEO.
Advocate Adila Hassim holds numerous awards and is amongst others a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and holds chambers at Thulamela Group of Advocates. Advocate Hassim co-founded SECTION27, a public interest law organisation that defends the rights of health, education and food. She served as its Director of Litigation until 2017. She is also a founding director of Corruption Watch and a Trustee of the Constitutional Hill Trust. She is a former law clerk to Deputy Chief Justice Pius Langa, as well as Justice Edwin Cameron.
Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga was at the helm of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) for eight years and holds the title of CPUT’s first Rector and Vice-Chancellor. Her experience as an educationist began in the Eastern Cape, where she taught Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology at several high schools. An invitation to serve in the Ministry of Education as a Ministerial Advisor to Minister Kader Asmal, introduced Professor Mazwi-Tanga to systems in national higher education, something which served her well when she assumed the position of leadership of CPUT. Professor Mazwi-Tanga retired as Vice Chancellor in December 2013. She currently serves as one of the Advocates for Social Cohesion, Nation Building and Democracy that is driven through the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
The AMS Board of Trustees is steered by Chairman, Mr. Gideon Sam and comprises of Board Member, Adv. Adila Hassim, Prof. Lineo Mazwi-Tanga, Mr. René de Wet, Prof. Shepherd Mayatula, Mr. Geoffrey Qhena, Mr. Alan Marshall, Mr. Ray ka Msengana and Mr. Lwazi Mboyi. “We look forward to the insights under the leadership of our Board of Trustees with unique and diverse backgrounds and experiences that will make them an asset to the organisation in pursuing our mission to building a national asset for our country by ensuring that healthcare reaches all South Africans” Dr Philip Erasmus concluded.
-
Meet our team ...
Although he has only been with us officially since the beginning of July, today’s staff profile feature is not a new face to the AMS family. Nolan Naidoo’s journey with the AMS started way back when he volunteered for the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and then later as one of the METRO volunteers working on a rotational basis at AMS. We are thrilled to have Nolan with us full time and hope that he will enjoy his time here. Here’s a look into his world …
Tell us about yourself: “I was born and bred in Cape Town and have been involved in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for 18 years. I started volunteering for SARCS in the 1990’s and developed a passion for EMS and later joined the Western Cape Department of Health Emergency Medical Services as a volunteer. I completed the necessary courses in order to further myself and later started working for Netcare for six years. I moved back to the Western Cape Department of Health EMS, then started working at AMS on a rotational basis and fell in love with AMS. I volunteered at AMS for six years before I officially joined the team on a permanent basis in July this year.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “Scuba diving.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Hiking.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I love cooking, I am a coffee snob.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “The interaction with people.”
What is on your bedside table? “Only a lampshade.”
If you could have dinner with people from history, who would they be? “Bob Marley, Ghandi and my late grandfather.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “Everyone is happy that I am off the road and in a safer environment.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “The birth of my son.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “Professional mountain biker.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Coffee and chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Coffee.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Caring.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “You carry the consequences of the choices you make.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Take things easy.”
Meet our team ...
Although he has only been with us officially since the beginning of July, today’s staff profile feature is not a new face to the AMS family. Nolan Naidoo’s journey with the AMS started way back when he volunteered for the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and then later as one of the METRO volunteers working on a rotational basis at AMS. We are thrilled to have Nolan with us full time and hope that he will enjoy his time here. Here’s a look into his world …
Tell us about yourself: “I was born and bred in Cape Town and have been involved in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for 18 years. I started volunteering for SARCS in the 1990’s and developed a passion for EMS and later joined the Western Cape Department of Health Emergency Medical Services as a volunteer. I completed the necessary courses in order to further myself and later started working for Netcare for six years. I moved back to the Western Cape Department of Health EMS, then started working at AMS on a rotational basis and fell in love with AMS. I volunteered at AMS for six years before I officially joined the team on a permanent basis in July this year.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “Scuba diving.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Hiking.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I love cooking, I am a coffee snob.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “The interaction with people.”
What is on your bedside table? “Only a lampshade.”
If you could have dinner with people from history, who would they be? “Bob Marley, Ghandi and my late grandfather.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “Everyone is happy that I am off the road and in a safer environment.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “The birth of my son.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “Professional mountain biker.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Coffee and chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Coffee.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Caring.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “You carry the consequences of the choices you make.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Take things easy.”
Meet our team ...
-
Meet our team ...
Although he has only been with us officially since the beginning of July, today’s staff profile feature is not a new face to the AMS family. Nolan Naidoo’s journey with the AMS started way back when he volunteered for the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and then later as one of the METRO volunteers working on a rotational basis at AMS. We are thrilled to have Nolan with us full time and hope that he will enjoy his time here. Here’s a look into his world …
Tell us about yourself: “I was born and bred in Cape Town and have been involved in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for 18 years. I started volunteering for SARCS in the 1990’s and developed a passion for EMS and later joined the Western Cape Department of Health Emergency Medical Services as a volunteer. I completed the necessary courses in order to further myself and later started working for Netcare for six years. I moved back to the Western Cape Department of Health EMS, then started working at AMS on a rotational basis and fell in love with AMS. I volunteered at AMS for six years before I officially joined the team on a permanent basis in July this year.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “Scuba diving.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Hiking.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I love cooking, I am a coffee snob.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “The interaction with people.”
What is on your bedside table? “Only a lampshade.”
If you could have dinner with people from history, who would they be? “Bob Marley, Ghandi and my late grandfather.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “Everyone is happy that I am off the road and in a safer environment.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “The birth of my son.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “Professional mountain biker.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Coffee and chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Coffee.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Caring.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “You carry the consequences of the choices you make.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Take things easy.”
Meet our team ...
Although he has only been with us officially since the beginning of July, today’s staff profile feature is not a new face to the AMS family. Nolan Naidoo’s journey with the AMS started way back when he volunteered for the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and then later as one of the METRO volunteers working on a rotational basis at AMS. We are thrilled to have Nolan with us full time and hope that he will enjoy his time here. Here’s a look into his world …
Tell us about yourself: “I was born and bred in Cape Town and have been involved in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for 18 years. I started volunteering for SARCS in the 1990’s and developed a passion for EMS and later joined the Western Cape Department of Health Emergency Medical Services as a volunteer. I completed the necessary courses in order to further myself and later started working for Netcare for six years. I moved back to the Western Cape Department of Health EMS, then started working at AMS on a rotational basis and fell in love with AMS. I volunteered at AMS for six years before I officially joined the team on a permanent basis in July this year.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “Scuba diving.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Hiking.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I love cooking, I am a coffee snob.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “The interaction with people.”
What is on your bedside table? “Only a lampshade.”
If you could have dinner with people from history, who would they be? “Bob Marley, Ghandi and my late grandfather.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “Everyone is happy that I am off the road and in a safer environment.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “The birth of my son.”
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? “Professional mountain biker.”
What is your greatest indulgence? “Coffee and chocolate.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “Coffee.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “Caring.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “You carry the consequences of the choices you make.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Take things easy.”
-
Meet our team ...
Today we welcome Lliam Richmond, newest addition to the AMS family. Lliam relocated from the City of Gold to join the Cape Town team in June. Here’s a look into his world.
Who is Lliam Richmond? “I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I attended St. Stithians College from a young age. After matriculating in 2012, I completed a Bachelors Degree of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg, graduating at the end of 2016. Once qualified, I worked at ER24 Johannesburg North branch for two and a half years, from the beginning of 2017 until June 2019. In June 2019, I was offered a position as Flight Paramedic at the Red Cross Air Mercy Service and relocated to Cape Town. At the beginning of 2019, I enrolled for my Masters of Philosophy in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, which I hope to complete in the next two to three years.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No, I started studying towards my degree after high school and have been involved in emergency medical services ever since.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I found out about the AMS towards the end of my studies (2015/2016) and have aspired to work for such a service since then. Furthermore, I have a passion for aero-medicine and the critical care environment. I am excited for this next chapter and what it has in store, both its challenges and experiences.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To kite surf or fly a helicopter.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Apart from working on my Masters, I enjoy taking time to relax, socialise and spend quality time with friends and family.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I have a fascination with helicopters and hope to obtain my own helicopters pilots license in the future.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Working as a paramedic can be highly fulfilling, yet it can have its drawbacks. What I enjoy most is when we can make a difference in someone’s life, from as little as comforting a child at the scene of an accident to working hard to stabilise a critical ill or injured patient. It’s the difference we can make that makes it all worth it.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They typically applaud the work that is done by paramedics and this is followed by two common questions, how do you do it? and what is the worst thing you’ve ever seen? Overall, people are rather impressed with the work we do and are exceptionally grateful.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “There have been many days that I consider the happiest day(s) of my life, I would struggle to choose one.
What is your greatest indulgence? “Sushi.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “I am passionate and driven.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “I’ve been fortunate to receive many pieces of advice over the years, which have aided my growth and development as a person and practitioner.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Love what you do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
Meet our team ...
Today we welcome Lliam Richmond, newest addition to the AMS family. Lliam relocated from the City of Gold to join the Cape Town team in June. Here’s a look into his world.
Who is Lliam Richmond? “I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I attended St. Stithians College from a young age. After matriculating in 2012, I completed a Bachelors Degree of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg, graduating at the end of 2016. Once qualified, I worked at ER24 Johannesburg North branch for two and a half years, from the beginning of 2017 until June 2019. In June 2019, I was offered a position as Flight Paramedic at the Red Cross Air Mercy Service and relocated to Cape Town. At the beginning of 2019, I enrolled for my Masters of Philosophy in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, which I hope to complete in the next two to three years.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No, I started studying towards my degree after high school and have been involved in emergency medical services ever since.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I found out about the AMS towards the end of my studies (2015/2016) and have aspired to work for such a service since then. Furthermore, I have a passion for aero-medicine and the critical care environment. I am excited for this next chapter and what it has in store, both its challenges and experiences.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To kite surf or fly a helicopter.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Apart from working on my Masters, I enjoy taking time to relax, socialise and spend quality time with friends and family.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I have a fascination with helicopters and hope to obtain my own helicopters pilots license in the future.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Working as a paramedic can be highly fulfilling, yet it can have its drawbacks. What I enjoy most is when we can make a difference in someone’s life, from as little as comforting a child at the scene of an accident to working hard to stabilise a critical ill or injured patient. It’s the difference we can make that makes it all worth it.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They typically applaud the work that is done by paramedics and this is followed by two common questions, how do you do it? and what is the worst thing you’ve ever seen? Overall, people are rather impressed with the work we do and are exceptionally grateful.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “There have been many days that I consider the happiest day(s) of my life, I would struggle to choose one.
What is your greatest indulgence? “Sushi.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “I am passionate and driven.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “I’ve been fortunate to receive many pieces of advice over the years, which have aided my growth and development as a person and practitioner.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Love what you do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
Meet our team ...
-
Meet our team ...
Today we welcome Lliam Richmond, newest addition to the AMS family. Lliam relocated from the City of Gold to join the Cape Town team in June. Here’s a look into his world.
Who is Lliam Richmond? “I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I attended St. Stithians College from a young age. After matriculating in 2012, I completed a Bachelors Degree of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg, graduating at the end of 2016. Once qualified, I worked at ER24 Johannesburg North branch for two and a half years, from the beginning of 2017 until June 2019. In June 2019, I was offered a position as Flight Paramedic at the Red Cross Air Mercy Service and relocated to Cape Town. At the beginning of 2019, I enrolled for my Masters of Philosophy in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, which I hope to complete in the next two to three years.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No, I started studying towards my degree after high school and have been involved in emergency medical services ever since.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I found out about the AMS towards the end of my studies (2015/2016) and have aspired to work for such a service since then. Furthermore, I have a passion for aero-medicine and the critical care environment. I am excited for this next chapter and what it has in store, both its challenges and experiences.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To kite surf or fly a helicopter.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Apart from working on my Masters, I enjoy taking time to relax, socialise and spend quality time with friends and family.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I have a fascination with helicopters and hope to obtain my own helicopters pilots license in the future.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Working as a paramedic can be highly fulfilling, yet it can have its drawbacks. What I enjoy most is when we can make a difference in someone’s life, from as little as comforting a child at the scene of an accident to working hard to stabilise a critical ill or injured patient. It’s the difference we can make that makes it all worth it.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They typically applaud the work that is done by paramedics and this is followed by two common questions, how do you do it? and what is the worst thing you’ve ever seen? Overall, people are rather impressed with the work we do and are exceptionally grateful.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “There have been many days that I consider the happiest day(s) of my life, I would struggle to choose one.
What is your greatest indulgence? “Sushi.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “I am passionate and driven.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “I’ve been fortunate to receive many pieces of advice over the years, which have aided my growth and development as a person and practitioner.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Love what you do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
Meet our team ...
Today we welcome Lliam Richmond, newest addition to the AMS family. Lliam relocated from the City of Gold to join the Cape Town team in June. Here’s a look into his world.
Who is Lliam Richmond? “I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I attended St. Stithians College from a young age. After matriculating in 2012, I completed a Bachelors Degree of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg, graduating at the end of 2016. Once qualified, I worked at ER24 Johannesburg North branch for two and a half years, from the beginning of 2017 until June 2019. In June 2019, I was offered a position as Flight Paramedic at the Red Cross Air Mercy Service and relocated to Cape Town. At the beginning of 2019, I enrolled for my Masters of Philosophy in Emergency Medicine at the University of Cape Town, which I hope to complete in the next two to three years.”
Were you in any other trade before? “No, I started studying towards my degree after high school and have been involved in emergency medical services ever since.”
Why did you choose to join the AMS? “I found out about the AMS towards the end of my studies (2015/2016) and have aspired to work for such a service since then. Furthermore, I have a passion for aero-medicine and the critical care environment. I am excited for this next chapter and what it has in store, both its challenges and experiences.”
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be? “To kite surf or fly a helicopter.”
What do you do in your spare time? “Apart from working on my Masters, I enjoy taking time to relax, socialise and spend quality time with friends and family.”
What might someone be surprised to know about you? “I have a fascination with helicopters and hope to obtain my own helicopters pilots license in the future.”
What do you enjoy most about your job? “Working as a paramedic can be highly fulfilling, yet it can have its drawbacks. What I enjoy most is when we can make a difference in someone’s life, from as little as comforting a child at the scene of an accident to working hard to stabilise a critical ill or injured patient. It’s the difference we can make that makes it all worth it.”
When your friends/family find out what you do, what do they say or ask? “They typically applaud the work that is done by paramedics and this is followed by two common questions, how do you do it? and what is the worst thing you’ve ever seen? Overall, people are rather impressed with the work we do and are exceptionally grateful.”
What has been the happiest day of your life? “There have been many days that I consider the happiest day(s) of my life, I would struggle to choose one.
What is your greatest indulgence? “Sushi.”
What is the one thing, you can’t live without? “My family.”
What is the one quality you feel best describes you? “I am passionate and driven.”
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave you? “I’ve been fortunate to receive many pieces of advice over the years, which have aided my growth and development as a person and practitioner.”
Do you have a life philosophy? “Love what you do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
Latest Galleries
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Ehambayo Mobile Medical Simulator
As part of the organisation’s value added service, the AMS established a training unit for the purpose of facilitation of learning and skills development. The establishment of a mobile medical training simulator (named The Ehambayo Medical Simulator) unit funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) provides a cost effective learning platform for medical personnel to be trained in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), more specifically the transportation of patients in an air ambulance or confined space environment. This road based unit will make training more accessible to staff working in the rural areas, creating opportunities for career growth, capacity building, and skills development, ensuring the efficient and equitable utilisation of the air ambulance service.
The Ehambayo Medical Simulator supports the improvement of clinical care with a view to better patient prognosis in real life situations. The two medical simulators are positioned at the AMS bases situated in the Western Cape (Cape Town) & KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Thus allowing the simulators to reach all the Provinces in the Republic of South Africa ensuring that the training unit and educators are fully mobile able to reach the deep rural medical facilities in our country.
Ehambayo Mobile Medical Simulator
As part of the organisation’s value added service, the AMS established a training unit for the purpose of facilitation of learning and skills development. The establishment of a mobile medical training simulator (named The Ehambayo Medical Simulator) unit funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) provides a cost effective learning platform for medical personnel to be trained in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), more specifically the transportation of patients in an air ambulance or confined space environment. This road based unit will make training more accessible to staff working in the rural areas, creating opportunities for career growth, capacity building, and skills development, ensuring the efficient and equitable utilisation of the air ambulance service.
The Ehambayo Medical Simulator supports the improvement of clinical care with a view to better patient prognosis in real life situations. The two medical simulators are positioned at the AMS bases situated in the Western Cape (Cape Town) & KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Thus allowing the simulators to reach all the Provinces in the Republic of South Africa ensuring that the training unit and educators are fully mobile able to reach the deep rural medical facilities in our country.
Ehambayo Mobile Medical Simulator
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Ehambayo Mobile Medical Simulator
As part of the organisation’s value added service, the AMS established a training unit for the purpose of facilitation of learning and skills development. The establishment of a mobile medical training simulator (named The Ehambayo Medical Simulator) unit funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) provides a cost effective learning platform for medical personnel to be trained in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), more specifically the transportation of patients in an air ambulance or confined space environment. This road based unit will make training more accessible to staff working in the rural areas, creating opportunities for career growth, capacity building, and skills development, ensuring the efficient and equitable utilisation of the air ambulance service.
The Ehambayo Medical Simulator supports the improvement of clinical care with a view to better patient prognosis in real life situations. The two medical simulators are positioned at the AMS bases situated in the Western Cape (Cape Town) & KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Thus allowing the simulators to reach all the Provinces in the Republic of South Africa ensuring that the training unit and educators are fully mobile able to reach the deep rural medical facilities in our country.
Ehambayo Mobile Medical Simulator
As part of the organisation’s value added service, the AMS established a training unit for the purpose of facilitation of learning and skills development. The establishment of a mobile medical training simulator (named The Ehambayo Medical Simulator) unit funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) provides a cost effective learning platform for medical personnel to be trained in the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), more specifically the transportation of patients in an air ambulance or confined space environment. This road based unit will make training more accessible to staff working in the rural areas, creating opportunities for career growth, capacity building, and skills development, ensuring the efficient and equitable utilisation of the air ambulance service.
The Ehambayo Medical Simulator supports the improvement of clinical care with a view to better patient prognosis in real life situations. The two medical simulators are positioned at the AMS bases situated in the Western Cape (Cape Town) & KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Thus allowing the simulators to reach all the Provinces in the Republic of South Africa ensuring that the training unit and educators are fully mobile able to reach the deep rural medical facilities in our country.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
KwaZulu-Natal 20th Anniversary Celebration
Guest of honour and keynote speaker, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo celebrated the 20 year partnership with the AMS and the recently launched National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funded mobile medical simulator at Durban Country Club. The AMS in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health celebrated 20 years of providing access to healthcare to the rural and urban communities of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). In what is described as one of the brilliant Department of Health initiatives the KZN aero-medical service has operated a Flying Doctor (Outreach) Service for the past 20 years in KwaZulu-Natal which now boasts one of the most comprehensive outreach programmes creating access to specialist health support throughout the Province. Starting off with one Pilatus PC 12, the first outreach clinic took place on the 8th of June 1998 at Matatiele Hospital. The notion of spreading limited specialist resources over a wider geographical area and also supporting outlying facilities through outreach services became a reality.
“KZN is an extremely mountainous and vast province. To travel from Kokstad to Durban, for instance, is about four and half hours. It’s the same with Manguzi to Durban. If you had to have a patient in Manguzi or Kokstad who has been examined and the doctors are saying he or she has poly-trauma, which means several critical injuries and bleeding, that patient can’t be assisted in a distant area. That patient needs to be connected to the machines, put in ICU, in a ventilator and receive more blood. That can only be done at a bigger hospital like Albert Luthuli. This advanced technology allows us to help patients who would otherwise have died, not to die anymore. The beneficiaries aren’t just the Department of Health, but the citizens of KZN. It is going to cause less panic… (for people) to know that even if, God forbid, I were to get into an accident in Nongoma, UMhlabuyalingana and Kokstad, I am safe because this Department is able to send this helicopter with this advanced technology to pick me up from there, and within 30 minutes I’m at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Our mandate is to ensure A Long and Healthy Life for All South Africans. We treat those who are ill and injured, in the far-flung areas, this is the best facility for our province” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo MEC for Health KZN. Images courtesy Brian Spurr.
KwaZulu-Natal 20th Anniversary Celebration
Guest of honour and keynote speaker, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo celebrated the 20 year partnership with the AMS and the recently launched National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funded mobile medical simulator at Durban Country Club. The AMS in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health celebrated 20 years of providing access to healthcare to the rural and urban communities of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). In what is described as one of the brilliant Department of Health initiatives the KZN aero-medical service has operated a Flying Doctor (Outreach) Service for the past 20 years in KwaZulu-Natal which now boasts one of the most comprehensive outreach programmes creating access to specialist health support throughout the Province. Starting off with one Pilatus PC 12, the first outreach clinic took place on the 8th of June 1998 at Matatiele Hospital. The notion of spreading limited specialist resources over a wider geographical area and also supporting outlying facilities through outreach services became a reality.
“KZN is an extremely mountainous and vast province. To travel from Kokstad to Durban, for instance, is about four and half hours. It’s the same with Manguzi to Durban. If you had to have a patient in Manguzi or Kokstad who has been examined and the doctors are saying he or she has poly-trauma, which means several critical injuries and bleeding, that patient can’t be assisted in a distant area. That patient needs to be connected to the machines, put in ICU, in a ventilator and receive more blood. That can only be done at a bigger hospital like Albert Luthuli. This advanced technology allows us to help patients who would otherwise have died, not to die anymore. The beneficiaries aren’t just the Department of Health, but the citizens of KZN. It is going to cause less panic… (for people) to know that even if, God forbid, I were to get into an accident in Nongoma, UMhlabuyalingana and Kokstad, I am safe because this Department is able to send this helicopter with this advanced technology to pick me up from there, and within 30 minutes I’m at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Our mandate is to ensure A Long and Healthy Life for All South Africans. We treat those who are ill and injured, in the far-flung areas, this is the best facility for our province” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo MEC for Health KZN. Images courtesy Brian Spurr.
KwaZulu-Natal 20th Anniversary Celebration
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
KwaZulu-Natal 20th Anniversary Celebration
Guest of honour and keynote speaker, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo celebrated the 20 year partnership with the AMS and the recently launched National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funded mobile medical simulator at Durban Country Club. The AMS in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health celebrated 20 years of providing access to healthcare to the rural and urban communities of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). In what is described as one of the brilliant Department of Health initiatives the KZN aero-medical service has operated a Flying Doctor (Outreach) Service for the past 20 years in KwaZulu-Natal which now boasts one of the most comprehensive outreach programmes creating access to specialist health support throughout the Province. Starting off with one Pilatus PC 12, the first outreach clinic took place on the 8th of June 1998 at Matatiele Hospital. The notion of spreading limited specialist resources over a wider geographical area and also supporting outlying facilities through outreach services became a reality.
“KZN is an extremely mountainous and vast province. To travel from Kokstad to Durban, for instance, is about four and half hours. It’s the same with Manguzi to Durban. If you had to have a patient in Manguzi or Kokstad who has been examined and the doctors are saying he or she has poly-trauma, which means several critical injuries and bleeding, that patient can’t be assisted in a distant area. That patient needs to be connected to the machines, put in ICU, in a ventilator and receive more blood. That can only be done at a bigger hospital like Albert Luthuli. This advanced technology allows us to help patients who would otherwise have died, not to die anymore. The beneficiaries aren’t just the Department of Health, but the citizens of KZN. It is going to cause less panic… (for people) to know that even if, God forbid, I were to get into an accident in Nongoma, UMhlabuyalingana and Kokstad, I am safe because this Department is able to send this helicopter with this advanced technology to pick me up from there, and within 30 minutes I’m at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Our mandate is to ensure A Long and Healthy Life for All South Africans. We treat those who are ill and injured, in the far-flung areas, this is the best facility for our province” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo MEC for Health KZN. Images courtesy Brian Spurr.
KwaZulu-Natal 20th Anniversary Celebration
Guest of honour and keynote speaker, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo celebrated the 20 year partnership with the AMS and the recently launched National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funded mobile medical simulator at Durban Country Club. The AMS in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health celebrated 20 years of providing access to healthcare to the rural and urban communities of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). In what is described as one of the brilliant Department of Health initiatives the KZN aero-medical service has operated a Flying Doctor (Outreach) Service for the past 20 years in KwaZulu-Natal which now boasts one of the most comprehensive outreach programmes creating access to specialist health support throughout the Province. Starting off with one Pilatus PC 12, the first outreach clinic took place on the 8th of June 1998 at Matatiele Hospital. The notion of spreading limited specialist resources over a wider geographical area and also supporting outlying facilities through outreach services became a reality.
“KZN is an extremely mountainous and vast province. To travel from Kokstad to Durban, for instance, is about four and half hours. It’s the same with Manguzi to Durban. If you had to have a patient in Manguzi or Kokstad who has been examined and the doctors are saying he or she has poly-trauma, which means several critical injuries and bleeding, that patient can’t be assisted in a distant area. That patient needs to be connected to the machines, put in ICU, in a ventilator and receive more blood. That can only be done at a bigger hospital like Albert Luthuli. This advanced technology allows us to help patients who would otherwise have died, not to die anymore. The beneficiaries aren’t just the Department of Health, but the citizens of KZN. It is going to cause less panic… (for people) to know that even if, God forbid, I were to get into an accident in Nongoma, UMhlabuyalingana and Kokstad, I am safe because this Department is able to send this helicopter with this advanced technology to pick me up from there, and within 30 minutes I’m at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Our mandate is to ensure A Long and Healthy Life for All South Africans. We treat those who are ill and injured, in the far-flung areas, this is the best facility for our province” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo MEC for Health KZN. Images courtesy Brian Spurr.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Introduction of Night Vision System into KZN operation
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has described the launch of the Night Vision Aero-Medical System as the radical transformation of the emergency health services in the country. He was reacting to the overwhelming response from the public following the launch in Richards Bay Airport on the 4th of September 2014. The launch was attended by MEC for Health Dr Sbongiseni Dhlomo. The Night Vision Googles (NVG) is a specially designed pair of goggles that is generally used in a military environment and allows the user better visibility in night conditions. The aircraft interiors have been modified and training has commenced with all the AMS pilots being fully trained. Its availability will greatly improve access and the delivery of advanced medical and trauma care to our patients and victims of motor vehicle collisions and those trapped in mountains. It has also resulted in the increase of the aero-medical hours of operations. Sincere thanks and appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Department and the Anglo American Chairman's Fund for investing in the NVG System to ensure that access and delivery of advanced medical care reaches those in far flung areas of KwaZulu-Natal.
The NVG system will assist in bringing essential health services to all our people, especially those in far flung areas. The KZN government want to ensure that by 2030 the Province of KwaZulu-Natal becomes a prosperous Province, with healthy, skilled and secure people, acting as a gateway to Africa and the world. The following hospitals already accessible to receive and dispatch night flights: Eshowe, KwaMagwaza (Melmoth), Ulundi Airfield (Nkonjeni), Ceza, Vryheid, Itshelejuba (Pongola), St Benedictine (Nongoma), Hlabisa, Mkuze Airfield (Bethesda), Mosvold, Manguzi, Mseleni, Dukuduku (St Lucia), Ngwelezane.
Introduction of Night Vision System into KZN operation
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has described the launch of the Night Vision Aero-Medical System as the radical transformation of the emergency health services in the country. He was reacting to the overwhelming response from the public following the launch in Richards Bay Airport on the 4th of September 2014. The launch was attended by MEC for Health Dr Sbongiseni Dhlomo. The Night Vision Googles (NVG) is a specially designed pair of goggles that is generally used in a military environment and allows the user better visibility in night conditions. The aircraft interiors have been modified and training has commenced with all the AMS pilots being fully trained. Its availability will greatly improve access and the delivery of advanced medical and trauma care to our patients and victims of motor vehicle collisions and those trapped in mountains. It has also resulted in the increase of the aero-medical hours of operations. Sincere thanks and appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Department and the Anglo American Chairman's Fund for investing in the NVG System to ensure that access and delivery of advanced medical care reaches those in far flung areas of KwaZulu-Natal.
The NVG system will assist in bringing essential health services to all our people, especially those in far flung areas. The KZN government want to ensure that by 2030 the Province of KwaZulu-Natal becomes a prosperous Province, with healthy, skilled and secure people, acting as a gateway to Africa and the world. The following hospitals already accessible to receive and dispatch night flights: Eshowe, KwaMagwaza (Melmoth), Ulundi Airfield (Nkonjeni), Ceza, Vryheid, Itshelejuba (Pongola), St Benedictine (Nongoma), Hlabisa, Mkuze Airfield (Bethesda), Mosvold, Manguzi, Mseleni, Dukuduku (St Lucia), Ngwelezane.
Introduction of Night Vision System into KZN operation
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Introduction of Night Vision System into KZN operation
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has described the launch of the Night Vision Aero-Medical System as the radical transformation of the emergency health services in the country. He was reacting to the overwhelming response from the public following the launch in Richards Bay Airport on the 4th of September 2014. The launch was attended by MEC for Health Dr Sbongiseni Dhlomo. The Night Vision Googles (NVG) is a specially designed pair of goggles that is generally used in a military environment and allows the user better visibility in night conditions. The aircraft interiors have been modified and training has commenced with all the AMS pilots being fully trained. Its availability will greatly improve access and the delivery of advanced medical and trauma care to our patients and victims of motor vehicle collisions and those trapped in mountains. It has also resulted in the increase of the aero-medical hours of operations. Sincere thanks and appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Department and the Anglo American Chairman's Fund for investing in the NVG System to ensure that access and delivery of advanced medical care reaches those in far flung areas of KwaZulu-Natal.
The NVG system will assist in bringing essential health services to all our people, especially those in far flung areas. The KZN government want to ensure that by 2030 the Province of KwaZulu-Natal becomes a prosperous Province, with healthy, skilled and secure people, acting as a gateway to Africa and the world. The following hospitals already accessible to receive and dispatch night flights: Eshowe, KwaMagwaza (Melmoth), Ulundi Airfield (Nkonjeni), Ceza, Vryheid, Itshelejuba (Pongola), St Benedictine (Nongoma), Hlabisa, Mkuze Airfield (Bethesda), Mosvold, Manguzi, Mseleni, Dukuduku (St Lucia), Ngwelezane.
Introduction of Night Vision System into KZN operation
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has described the launch of the Night Vision Aero-Medical System as the radical transformation of the emergency health services in the country. He was reacting to the overwhelming response from the public following the launch in Richards Bay Airport on the 4th of September 2014. The launch was attended by MEC for Health Dr Sbongiseni Dhlomo. The Night Vision Googles (NVG) is a specially designed pair of goggles that is generally used in a military environment and allows the user better visibility in night conditions. The aircraft interiors have been modified and training has commenced with all the AMS pilots being fully trained. Its availability will greatly improve access and the delivery of advanced medical and trauma care to our patients and victims of motor vehicle collisions and those trapped in mountains. It has also resulted in the increase of the aero-medical hours of operations. Sincere thanks and appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Department and the Anglo American Chairman's Fund for investing in the NVG System to ensure that access and delivery of advanced medical care reaches those in far flung areas of KwaZulu-Natal.
The NVG system will assist in bringing essential health services to all our people, especially those in far flung areas. The KZN government want to ensure that by 2030 the Province of KwaZulu-Natal becomes a prosperous Province, with healthy, skilled and secure people, acting as a gateway to Africa and the world. The following hospitals already accessible to receive and dispatch night flights: Eshowe, KwaMagwaza (Melmoth), Ulundi Airfield (Nkonjeni), Ceza, Vryheid, Itshelejuba (Pongola), St Benedictine (Nongoma), Hlabisa, Mkuze Airfield (Bethesda), Mosvold, Manguzi, Mseleni, Dukuduku (St Lucia), Ngwelezane.