Is there a doctor on board? The midair emergency call medical professionals dread
The Call to Action
Imagine you're on a flight, and suddenly, a passenger's life hangs in the balance. This is the reality for medical professionals who find themselves in the unenviable position of being the only doctor on board. It's a scenario that can be both thrilling and terrifying, as seen in the story of British Airways Flight 032. But what happens when the call for help is made, and there's no doctor in sight? This is the question that haunts many in the medical community, and it's a topic that warrants a closer look.
The Midair Emergency
In 1995, Professor Angus Wallace and Dr. Tom Wong were on a flight when they received a call for help. A 39-year-old woman had fallen off her motorbike and was in need of medical attention. The doctors sprang into action, and their quick thinking and improvisation saved the day. But this is not an isolated incident. In-flight medical emergencies are not uncommon, and they can be life-threatening.
The Statistics
According to a US study, one in-flight medical emergency occurs about every 604 flights, which translates to 16 incidents for every 1 million passengers. The vast majority of these incidents occur on international flights, and deaths on board are even rarer, occurring about once in every 3 to 5 million passengers.
The Stress of the Unknown
Despite these statistics, the stress of being the only doctor on board can be overwhelming. Matt, an intern who helped a man who collapsed on a flight, recalls the pressure of being in the spotlight. The flight attendant asked if they should divert the plane, and Matt felt the weight of everyone's gaze on him. This is a common experience for doctors who find themselves in this position.
The Legal Stress
In Australia, off-duty doctors have a professional obligation to assist in emergencies, but there is no legal protection from civil liability. This can be a significant stressor, especially on international flights where the jurisdiction is less clear. Some doctors choose to have a drink before the flight to avoid being involved, while others are hesitant to take any risks.
The Unlikely Event
The fear of the unlikely event of a death at 10,000 meters is also a concern. What happens if a passenger dies mid-flight? The International Air Transport Association's guidelines suggest moving the body to a seat with few other passengers nearby or back to their own seat if the plane is full. Restraining the body with a seatbelt and covering it with a body bag or blanket is also recommended.
The Exception to the Rule
Despite the risks and stress, there are exceptions to the rule. Dorothy Fletcher, a 67-year-old woman who had a heart attack mid-flight, was lucky enough to have 15 heart specialists on board who stood up to help. She recovered in time to attend her daughter's wedding.
The Takeaway
In-flight medical emergencies are a rare but serious concern. While the statistics may be reassuring, the stress of being the only doctor on board can be overwhelming. The legal and ethical considerations of providing mid-air assistance are complex, and the fear of the unlikely event of a death at 10,000 meters is a constant worry. But as the story of Professor Wallace and Dr. Wong shows, quick thinking and improvisation can make all the difference.
