The role of the aviation medical examiner in aircraft disasters

Abstract

Aircraft accidents seldom produce large numbers of seriously injured casualties in need of emergency medical care. Most aircraft accidents occur on or in the immediate vicinity of airports. Plans for providing medical service in connection with aircraft accidents should be part of community disaster plans.Aviation Medical Examiners, designated by the Federal Aviation Agency for the purpose of examining civilian pilots, should be included as volunteers in local disaster plans to assist in the event of aircraft accidents. Their geographic location, aviation orientation, and relationship with other federal and local authorities equip them to provide valuable services for such events.