Apple approves “Heli-Now” app to speed up EMS helicopter response

Apple approves “Heli-Now” app to speed up EMS helicopter response

24-Jan-2013 Source: USA Today

A Life Flight helicopter pilot, Cooper has released an iPhone application he hopes can help save the lives of flight crew patients by reducing the time it takes for a first responder’s help call to reach a pilot.  Heli-Now gives first responders the ability to directly request an EMS helicopter to where it is needed most. Use Heli-Now to find helicopters in your area and send a request directly to the helicopter using your exact GPS coordinates.

With Heli-Now, dispatch is significantly simplified – these bullet points taken from their own description of the app:-

  • Paramedic opens the Heli-Now application on his phone and sees a list of the helicopters available in their area, with an indication of how long it will take to arrive.
  • Paramedic selects the closest option and presses the request button.
  • An error-free digital message with the paramedic’s location, request and work information is sent directly, and simultaneously, to the helicopter’s dispatch center, pilot and medical crew.
  • The flight is en route to the exact location of the accident.
  • After the request is sent, the paramedic and the helicopter dispatcher talk directly to each other to discuss any additional information.

From an operator’s point of view the developers of Heli-Now expect that the app will lead to increased flight volume and increased chances of getting hand down flights.  They also expect a wider range of coverage and see benefits in direct communications between an operator’s dispatcher and on-scene personnel.  An operator has to pay a subscription of $200 a month per helicopter to be listed on the system.

Within the last 24 hours, Apple has now completed its review of the app and made it publicly available. See details on the iStore at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/heli-now/id578340894?mt=8

Warning – you need IOS6.0 minimum to download it….

See also http://www.heli-now.com or their facebook page http://www.facebook.com/HeliNowapp

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com

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