An integrated information system literally designed to save lives is the Global Patient Care and Tracking System (GPCATS) developed by Sierra Nevada Corp. (SNC). The system is designed for airborne medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) helicopters, supporting medics on the ground by linking them to the forward medical care facilities to assist the treatment through the evacuation process utilizing telemedicine technology.
A central element of the system is the Electronic Critical Care Flow Sheet (ECCFS), handling all the patient’s treatment procedures and history. The system uses wireless communications to monitor multiple patients, administering necessary intervention when required. The ECCFS updates the receiving hospital with patient video, ultrasound and other images, enabling hospital specialists to assist during medevac and preparing the hospital to receive the patient on arrival. GPCATS systems integrate an airborne access point, interfacing between the medics units (SNC’s Tacticomp 5 handheld computers) and the aircraft communications. The system also comprises a wireless-linked lightweight trauma module, including life support respiratory systems, remote monitoring and other sensors. This unit can also be enhanced with modules administering specific treatments. The medic units are designed to monitor multiple patients, control and operate the system, trigger patient status alarms, access and update diagnostic equipment, patient records and ECCFS, etc. All records are stamped with geographic and time records for further analysis.
