The Karlovy Vary region in the Czech Republic is taking significant steps to enhance its air ambulance services, aiming to provide critical medical assistance to residents, particularly in remote and rugged terrains. Currently, the region faces challenges as air ambulance services do not cover two-thirds of the area outside Plzeň within the legal limit of 20 minutes.

To address this issue, the Karlovy Vary region has devised a plan to introduce a new air ambulance service, with a trial run scheduled to commence in the coming year. The trial operation will be managed by the army and is expected to operate exclusively during daytime hours. The region is also in the process of identifying a contractor to conduct a feasibility study, an architectural study, and prepare the necessary documentation to establish a permanent and stable air ambulance service at the Karlovy Vary airport.

Petr Kulhánek, the Hejtman (Governor) of the Karlovy Vary region, has underscored that the new air ambulance service is not intended to compete with or detract from the existing air ambulance service in Plzeň but rather to enhance coverage in the region. He has also highlighted that discussions with authorities in Plzeň have taken place, and the new service in Karlovy Vary is not anticipated to adversely affect the service in Plzeň.

Addressing personnel-related concerns is also a part of the region’s strategy. Kulhánek has noted that the Karlovy Vary regional rescue service is actively working to address personnel-related issues, which encompass training and qualification enhancements.

The initiative to improve air ambulance services aligns with broader efforts to stimulate regional research and development in the Karlovy Vary region. The region aims to attract investment and is contemplating a gigafactory development project in the future. However, it is essential to distinguish between these economic development endeavors and the region’s commitment to enhancing air ambulance services.

Collaboration with officials in Plzeň and the Czech Ministry of Health has been a crucial aspect of the Karlovy Vary region’s efforts to develop the new air ambulance service. The Ministry has unveiled plans to formulate a novel concept for air ambulance services nationwide from 2028, with the Karlovy Vary region already included in these plans.

As the region advances its plans to expand air ambulance services, it aspires to bridge critical gaps in medical assistance, ensuring that even the most remote areas receive the timely and vital care they require.

Article by Prague Forum