Emirates and Parsys Introduce Advanced Telemedicine for Enhanced Inflight Medical Care
Emirates has partnered with Parsys Telemedicine to equip its fleet with a state-of-the-art telemedicine system, designed to significantly improve passenger health and safety during flights.
This collaboration, representing an investment of over USD 2.4 million, will see the installation of the new medical equipment on 300 aircraft over the coming years. The system incorporates cutting-edge technology, including high-definition video conferencing, remote patient assessment tools, secure data transmission capabilities, and a 12-Lead Telecardia ECG. This empowers the airline’s cabin crew to provide potentially life-saving medical assistance during in-flight emergencies.
Specifically designed for efficiency, reliability, and enhanced connectivity, the new medical equipment represents a substantial upgrade to Emirates’ existing inflight medical capabilities. It creates a safer environment for passengers by streamlining medical procedures and facilitating better communication with ground-based medical specialists.
Enhanced Safety, Speed, and Reliability
The new system includes the Parsys Telemedicine Kit and the Parsys Cloud. The portable telemedicine kit contains crucial medical devices such as pulse oximeters, thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and ECGs. Cabin crew can use these to collect and transmit vital health data to Emirates’ Ground Medical Support team in Dubai, which is available 24/7. This data is sent directly to the Medcapture© device via Bluetooth, improving the efficiency and accuracy of care.
The Medcapture© tablet, which features a user-friendly software interface, allows crew members to manage and record medical emergencies more effectively and offers real-time communication with ground-based doctors. Doctors can assess a passenger’s condition remotely and provide guidance as needed, and even evaluate certain issues visually.
The Parsys Cloud platform makes sure that data is transmitted safely to the Ground Medical Support team, guaranteeing the secure management of patient information in accordance with privacy regulations.
Real-World Impact: Saving Lives in the Air
The partnership has already had a life-saving impact. On a recent flight to Lyon, France, an elderly patient experienced a cardiovascular emergency, leading to a dangerous drop in oxygen levels. Emirates’ cabin crew sprang into action, administering oxygen and using the Parsys Medcapture© device to send the patient’s vital signs to the Ground Medical Support team. The team guided the crew, via the Parsys Cloud, through the situation, ensuring the passenger’s best possible care. The system’s seamless coordination between the crew and medical staff enabled prompt and well-informed decisions.
Comprehensive Medical Training for Cabin Crew
Emirates places a strong emphasis on medical training for its cabin crew. New hires undergo a rigorous eight-week ab-initio training program which includes comprehensive courses on safety, medical response, and service. Cabin crew are trained to manage many medical emergencies, including fainting, choking, allergic reactions, and sudden illnesses. They also receive intensive instruction in CPR, AED utilization, and childbirth assistance through advanced simulation technology.
Fully certified aviation first aid instructors provide this in-depth training, ensuring crew members are well-prepared to handle any medical emergency that may arise during the flight. Crew members are required to complete annual recurrent training, including online courses and practical sessions. Additionally, cabin crew are provided psychological training to manage passenger consent, provide emotional support, and communicate effectively with passengers and their families during medical events. After any medical emergency, crew members are supported through Emirates’ Employee Assistance Program to support their well-being.
