Global Emergency Assistance Snapshot: Medical Assistance From Remote Locations

Special Edition: Medical Assistance from Remote Locations

From medical and security emergencies to more common concerns like a delayed flight or missing passport–here at On Call, every phone call (or live chat, text, or email!) we receive is an opportunity to help someone get prepared for travel or solve a problem while they’re away.

Read our latest global emergency assistance snapshot on medical assistance from remote locations for an inside look at how On Call’s Global Response Center Teams work diligently around the clock, every day, to fulfill our mission of helping travelers in their time of need.

Heart Attack Enroute to Tonga
On Call was contacted by the son of a traveler who had suffered a heart attack while aboard a cruise ship. The ship was scheduled to dock in Tonga the following day, where the traveler would disembark. After consulting with the ship’s physician, On Call’s Medical Team assessed that the local medical facility in Tonga was not equipped to provide the necessary care for the traveler’s condition.

On Call’s Medical Team determined that urgent air ambulance evacuation to Brisbane was required, to the nearest medical facility capable of treating his condition. On Call immediately secured a team to rendezvous with the ship while docked in Tonga. On Call coordinated efforts with the cruise line, air ambulance, and local port agents to facilitate the safe transfer of the patient from the ship to the aircraft. The traveler successfully transported the patient to Brisbane, where he received the critical care required for his condition.

Appendicitis in Nevis
A traveler visiting Nevis became seriously ill and was diagnosed with appendicitis, requiring immediate surgery to prevent complications. After consulting with the treating physician, On Call determined that the traveler would need a nurse escort for her journey home following surgery.

Given the limited infrastructure on the island, with no airport available, On Call coordinated a multi-step transportation plan. First, the traveler was transferred by ground from the hospital to the ferry terminal. Upon arrival on the main island of Saint Kitts, ground transportation was arranged to take her to the airport. From there, the traveler and her nurse escort continued their journey back to her home country.

Shark Bite Emergency in Fiji
A traveler in Fiji was bitten by a shark while surfing and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital. Although stable, the traveler required emergency surgery. After consulting with the treating physician, On Call’s Medical Team assessed that the hospital was not equipped with the necessary resources to treat the traveler and recommended an air ambulance evacuation to the nearest facility in Australia for further care.

On Call coordinated the air ambulance flight, ensuring a smooth transfer. Upon arrival in Australia, the traveler was transported to a hospital where he received the required surgery and treatment, ultimately making a full recovery.

Hiking Accident in Kyrgyzstan
An expat hiking in Kyrgyzstan fell and sustained a leg fracture. He was taken to a nearby hospital, but the initial attempt to set the fracture was unsuccessful. After consulting with the treating physician, On Call’s Medical Team determined that surgery was required, and that the traveler should be moved to the nearest capable facility in Dubai for further treatment.

On Call coordinated the traveler’s commercial flight to Dubai and arranged ground transportation from the airport to the hospital. Once in Dubai, the traveler received outpatient care, while On Call organized accommodations, car service to and from the hospital, and liaised with the insurance provider for medical expense coverage. When the traveler was cleared to return to his work assignment, On Call arranged his flight and ground transport back to Kyrgyzstan.

Golfing Accident in Guantanamo Bay
During a golf tournament, an expat stationed at the Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay sustained a fractured eye socket from someone’s backswing. After being treated at the local hospital, On Call’s Medical Team assessed the situation and determined that an air ambulance transfer to a more advanced facility was necessary.

On Call coordinated the air ambulance evacuation, securing the required travel documentation and permits for the expat’s departure from the Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay. The expat was then successfully transferred to a Miami hospital for further treatment.

About On Call International:
When traveling, every problem is unique–a medical crisis, a political threat, even a common accident such as a missed flight. But every solution starts with customized care that ensures travelers are safe and protected. That’s why for over 30 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and emergency assistance services protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations. Visit www.oncallinternational.com and follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.