Vietnam proposes national aeromedical evacuation network

The Institute of Air Force Medicine has proposed the development of a standardized national aeromedical evacuation network in Vietnam. Currently, air medical services often rely on individual flights using modified military transport aircraft. The new proposal suggests transitioning to a unified, organized system utilizing specialized aircraft, including medium-range fixed-wing planes equipped for intensive care and next-generation helicopters with medical floors and rescue hoist systems.

To support this network, experts recommend expanding helicopter landing pads at provincial general hospitals, central-level hospitals, and key strategic areas to create a seamless chain of transport and treatment. Additionally, the proposal includes the establishment of a simulated aeromedical emergency training center. This facility would feature aircraft cabins capable of replicating noise, vibration, pressure changes, and night-time lighting conditions to train flight doctors, flight nurses, and medical personnel in aviation-environment patient care.