The Philippine Army has concluded the first-ever aeromedical evacuation training program geared at enhancing the life-saving capabilities of soldiers for combat casualties, according to its spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad.
Trinidad disclosed that some 17 students have completed the training program on Army Flight Medic Course and the Army Critical Care Flight Medic Course — which started early this January.
The closing ceremonies were held at the PA Officers' Clubhouse Pavilion, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on 5 December.
"The two-tiered program, which is facilitated by the Office of the Army Chief Nurse and Office of the Amy Chief Surgeon in collaboration with the Army Aviation Regiment and the Philippine Emergency Medical Service Authority, enhanced the student's knowledge and skills in treating and increasing the survivability of combat-wounded soldiers," Trinidad said.
The training has also upgraded the Aviation Regiment's aeromedical capability in light of the acquisition of new rotary wing assets that will be used in the transport of battle casualties, he added.
Meanwhile, PA Headquarters Support Group commander Brig. Gen. Moises Nayve Jr. addressed the participants of the program
"Through this course, we can proudly say that we already have the capability to rescue and take care of our combat casualties," Nayve said, on behalf of Army commanding general Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
Aerial medical evacuation is the fastest way to transport a combat-wounded soldier from the point of injury to the nearest medical treatment facility.
For her part, Army Chief Nurse Col. Maria Victoria Juan said the course will capacitate Army surgeons, nurses, and flight technicians in "improving the chances of survival of combat-wounded soldiers."