AN AIR ambulance service is to be launched on the island to transport patients both inland and abroad
The private company involved is set to be unveiled in a few weeks.
Up until now, emergency medical air transport has been provided by the police, with the force stretched as a result of only having one helicopter at its disposal for this purpose.
As a result, many patients in need have had to go without transport, with the focus on emergencies.
Similar air ambulance services already operate in most EU countries, with Cyprus’ entry into the market to extend the network that will serve most EU citizens.
Initially, the company will provide two helicopters and two aircraft, both of which have been described as state-of-the-art.
On-board will be the latest medical technology including defebrilators, oxygen supply, surgical and immobilising equipment and a full range of pharmaceuticals.
The aircraft will also be equipped with a live telemetry system linked to the medical centre the patient is being flown to, showing his or her current condition.
Both doctors and nurses will be on-board.
According to the local press, the new service is in an advanced stage of negotiations with a private clinic in Cyprus, with which it will cooperate.
Unnamed sources claim that the Health Ministry may purchase services from the company.
Medical stations in isolated areas will also be set up for cases where a patient needs to be stabilised before being flown to their final destination.
One centre is expected to the west of Nicosia, another in Polis Chrysochous and another to the south of Troodos. At a later stage, another station will be created to cover the eastern side of Nicosia up to Ayia Napa.
When a patient needs to be transported abroad, a flight will take off from Larnaca or Paphos airport to the country of destination without delay and bureaucratic obstacles, which is hoped will save lives.
The company will operate on annual subscriptions that will cover individuals and organisations.
The cost is expected to be €70 per person for the inland service and €90 for family cover.
The international service will charge €90 per person and €115 for family cover.
For organisations, the cost will depend on the number of employees covered.
Each subscriber will be transported to a hospital or clinic of their choice, nearest to the scene of an accident.
Patients will be allowed to be accompanied by loved ones at no extra cost, with the service also on offer to non-subscribers at an extra cost.
