The ÖAMTC air ambulance is well prepared for the challenges that the second corona wave brings with it. The experiences from March were analyzed and preparations started a few weeks ago, according to Managing Director Reinhard Kraxner.

“All over Austria, the population can rely on the fact that a highly professional and experienced Christophorus crew is quickly on hand in the event of life-threatening illnesses and serious accidents,” explains Kraxner. “In order to react to the increasing number of infections in operations, we have now integrated standardized antigen tests into daily operations before the start of a service period”, Kraxner presents the latest measure. “These tests offer the opportunity to test more and thus detect infections more quickly. In this sense, they increase the safety of the Christophorus crews and help prevent possible clusters from arising in the first place. "

In the first phase of the corona pandemic between mid-March and mid-May, the ÖAMTC emergency helicopters flew around 2.050 missions, around 100 of which were classified as strong suspected Covid cases. “It was important to us that we didn't have to close any of our bases for even an hour,” says Kraxner. “Because medical emergencies do not adhere to the times of day or exit restrictions. “One thing is certain: In the coming weeks and months, the emergency services in Austria will be confronted with new challenges almost every day. “The ÖAMTC air ambulance will continue to do everything possible to be fully operational - regardless of the general conditions,” said Kraxner.

External persons currently have no access to the ÖAMTC air ambulance bases or the seasonal bases of the Heli Ambulance Team. This creates a safe environment for the crews, paramedics and doctors, which should largely rule out the introduction of the coronavirus. In addition, a hygiene concept was developed that was continuously evaluated and adapted. There are separate zones available at all support points in which decontamination can be carried out after possible missions with patients who may be infected.