Safe return to Belgium after a skiing accident in Switzerland
This page deals exclusively with returning safely to Belgium after a skiing accident in Switzerland. The information supports the preparation of an individual transport file and does not replace an assessment by the treating physician.
Start with the injury and the permitted position
After a skiing accident, a fracture, joint injury, head trauma or surgery may limit the return journey. Have the Swiss treating provider record whether the patient may sit, how long the same position is manageable, whether the leg must remain elevated and what pain or wound care is needed during the journey.
Discharge clearance does not automatically mean that travelling by car, train or scheduled flight is suitable. Boarding, waiting, using the toilet and changing vehicles are assessed separately. In the event of new swelling, loss of sensation, shortness of breath or uncontrollable pain, the local physician should be contacted again.
From the ski area to the departure point
The actual pickup address is decisive: a mountain clinic, regional hospital, hotel and chalet each require different access arrangements. Discuss stairs, lift access, winter accessibility and the place where the ambulance and patient can safely meet.
The first journey is coordinated with the selected main mode of transport. A nearby departure point is not automatically suitable if the patient cannot be safely transferred there or the necessary support is unavailable.
Ambulance, escorted flight or stretcher
Someone who can sit stably and tolerate transfers may sometimes travel with medical assistance. When sitting is not feasible, transport lying down and any stretcher procedures are assessed. Intensive monitoring or instability may require a specialised flight.
The choice is made by combining current clinical information with the route, available assistance and reception in Belgium. Equipment such as crutches, a brace or a wheelchair is measured and registered in advance.
Pain relief and thrombosis management
The medication schedule, last dose and permitted emergency medication are handed over in writing. Only the treating physician determines whether additional thrombosis prevention or other treatment is needed; the transport team does not make medication changes of its own accord.
Supplies are calculated for the entire bed-to-bed duration and possible delays. Medicines remain accessible to the escort and are not placed in checked luggage.
Arrival in Belgium
Before departure, it is confirmed whether the patient is going home, to rehabilitation or to hospital. When returning home, access, the bed, the route to the toilet and the next care arrangements are discussed. For hospital admission, the receiving bed must have been accepted.
The handover states what happened during the journey, which medication was given and which restrictions remain in force. This ensures that the care chain ends only with the appropriate recipient.