Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do a clinical placement with HEMS?
HCL do not have a clinical placement programmes established for external candidates. On occasion, a visiting clinician may be permitted to travel as an observer only, and HCL has a policy in place with conditions to support this.
How is a helicopter dispatched?
Dispatch of helicopters depends on the type of mission.
For emergencies, helicopters are dispatched by the Air Desk, a specialised triage and deployment arm of the 111 system.
For inter-hospital transfers, dispatch is managed by the sending and receiving clinicians at the hospitals involved, in collaboration with the HEMS operator.
For search and rescue, HEMS operators work collaboratively with the agencies involved, including the Air Desk, New Zealand Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand and Coastguard, and on occasion the Civil Defence network.
Will I be able to bring a support person in the helicopter?
The pilot in charge of the helicopter makes the decisions on the number of passengers able to travel. This takes into account space, weight, weather conditions, fuel and destination. HEMS crews will endeavour to ensure a support person can accompany you, however it may not always be possible.
What is the clinical experience of HEMS paramedics?
HEMS crews comprise paramedics, and critical care paramedics. In addition to their qualifications, our clinical crew have extensive experience, with a minimum of two years in high-volume services before being eligible for employment as HEMS paramedics.
HEMS paramedics also complete annual professional development to maintain competency – this includes practising skills that are high risk and aren’t required often, delivered through HCL’s pre-hospital emergency anaesthesia training.
What happens with my personal information?
See the Patient Information page.
How can I provide feedback?
See the Contact us page.
How do you process complaints?
See the Contact us page.