Medical repatriation after a hip fracture on holiday
This page deals exclusively with medical repatriation after a hip fracture on holiday. The information supports the preparation of an individual transport file and does not replace an assessment by the treating physician.
Before or after surgery
The first question is whether the patient has undergone surgery locally, is still waiting for a procedure or is being treated conservatively. This determines wound care, pain management, permitted weight-bearing and when transport can be considered.
Request a recent medical summary, imaging report, surgery date, medication list and mobility instructions. Only the treating physician can indicate when the condition is stable enough for transport.
Sitting is not the same as travelling
A patient may be able to sit briefly in a chair but be unable to tolerate a long transfer, waiting time and flight. Therefore, assess bed-to-stretcher, ambulance, terminal, main journey, toilet needs and final transfer separately.
Pain, confusion, nausea, anaemia and the risk of pressure sores can affect the support required. If the condition changes, a new medical assessment is required.
Choose the mode of transport for the entire chain
Long-distance ambulance transport can limit transfers but requires prolonged care on the road. An accompanied scheduled flight may be faster, but includes boarding and airport procedures. When sitting is impossible, transport in a lying position is assessed.
The safest choice is the route that balances medical support and the burden on the patient over the entire bed-to-bed journey.
Medication, wound and equipment
Record when pain relief and other prescribed medication are to be administered. Wound supplies, incontinence care, walking aid and personal necessities should remain accessible.
The transport escort does not alter anticoagulation or any other treatment schedule on their own initiative. Instructions come from the departure physician and are handed over to the Belgian receiving party.
Preparation at home or in rehabilitation
Before departure, check the receiving bed, access to the home or facility and the next stage of care. Upon returning home, stairs, narrow passageways and toilet facilities may determine the final ambulance phase.
The handover includes mobility limitations, wound status, medication and anything that changed during the journey. This allows further rehabilitation to begin without any loss of information.