Prehospital Patient and Family Aftercare Service in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services: A Patient's Perspective

Abstract

Over the past decade the medical profession has witnessed patient and family aftercare becoming increasingly rooted within a patient-centric approach. Furthermore, there has been strong consensus within the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) sector for a Patient and Family Aftercare Service (PFAS) at Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex to further support an individual's experience from their core primary retrieval, through to the rehabilitation experience. This patient narrative highlights key interconnections between HEMS and an aftercare team that are important to the patient experience. Firstly, the clinical team provide prompt and expert medical intervention, which is crucial in managing critical injury and illness at the scene of an injury. Secondly, the narrative explores the emotional support provided by the healthcare professionals. Thirdly, the role of the support network, comprising of family, friends, and the wider community is discussed as integral for both physical and emotional rehabilitation post-incident. Furthermore, the narrative highlights that ongoing engagement from PFAS is important to continued rehabilitation and enhanced quality of life.