Western Australia Upgrades Medical Care on Rescue Helicopters
The Western Australian government has announced a significant upgrade to its emergency rescue services. Starting on 14 September, RAC Rescue helicopters based in Jandakot will begin operating under an “enhanced physician-paramedic model.” This change is designed to provide patients with a higher level of medical care during critical transport situations.
Under this new model, rescue teams will include both highly trained physicians and paramedics working together on board. By combining the specialized skills of doctors and paramedics, the service aims to improve health outcomes for patients who require urgent medical attention in remote or difficult-to-reach locations.
The rollout of this program will happen in stages across the state. Following the launch at the Jandakot base this September, the government plans to expand the enhanced model to the Bunbury rescue base by 2027. This expansion is part of a broader commitment to strengthening emergency response capabilities across Western Australia.
These improvements are expected to make a major difference for people involved in serious accidents or medical emergencies. By bringing advanced hospital-level care directly to the scene, the state hopes to save more lives and provide better support to those in need of emergency rescue.