1. First contact and information gathering
Patient location and treating facility, what has happened, current treatment, and the intended destination. With authority from the family or insurer, we request a current medical report from the treating team.
2. Clinical assessment
The medical information determines whether the patient can fly, what level of medical support the journey requires, and whether they need to be stabilised further before travel. This is the step that decides the transport option.
3. Confirming the receiving facility
A repatriation cannot be finalised until a hospital at the destination has accepted the patient and has a bed, or, for patients going home, until home care arrangements are in place. This is often the longest step.
4. Selecting the transport
Escort on a scheduled flight, commercial stretcher, or dedicated air ambulance, based on the clinical assessment, the route and the timing.
5. Clearances and logistics
Airline medical clearance for commercial travel, or permits, slots and handling for a dedicated aircraft. Ground ambulances at both ends. Documentation for border crossings, including anything the patient's condition or medication requires.
6. The journey and handover
The medical team collects the patient, manages the journey, and delivers a written and verbal handover to the receiving team. The case is closed once arrival and handover are confirmed.