Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust recently hosted the second annual Aeromedical Case Study Conference at The Essex Golf and Country Club in Earls Colne. The themes covered this year were Trauma, Paediatric Care, Medical Retrievals, Multiple and Logistical Challenges

The aim of the conference was to give like-minded professionals the opportunity to meet and examine key aspects of aeromedical clinical governance. Speakers from various Air Ambulances across the country and other helicopter emergency medical services were invited to present their own case study providing a critical look at different issues faced and lessons learned in the complex arena of immediate medical care.

Conference organiser and Chair, Dr Gareth Grier from EMSC said, “Building on the success of last year’s event, it was once again a privilege to be part of what is now becoming a national event in pre-hospital care. It is amazing to see the work that is going on throughout the UK with one common passion; the delivery of excellent care to patients before they reach hospital. It is encouraging to see many of the air ambulances coming together to share ideas, common protocols and strategies, all of which put the patient at the heart of our thoughts”.

A large number of interested clinicians and managers attended the day. There was excellent audience participation and a positive atmosphere throughout the day, with some lively debate and a high standard of presentations. The openness towards lessons learned was refreshing and, according to the feedback, delegates left having enjoyed and learned from the day.

Stuart Elms, Clinical Manager for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust said, “Once again Earls Colne saw Air Ambulance, HEMS and Medical Teams from the length and breadth of Great Britain meet to discuss challenging and educational clinical missions around themes that included major trauma, child injuries or illness and inter hospital transfers; following on from last year there were few punches pulled in the honesty of presentations and this generated some lively, thoughtful discussion that continued into the evening. The dedication and devotion to providing the very best patient care was evident and there was agreement that all parties should share and learn with the common goal of moving this part of medicine onwards”.

The Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust would like to thank the following sponsors; Medical Aviation Services, Spencer, Pro-Act, Datix and Boundtree for their support this year. If you are interested in joining us for next year’s Aeromedical Case Study Conference or would like to find out more about sponsorship opportunities please call 0845 2417 690.