User:Okavango Rescue/sandbox

Introduction
The Okavango Air Rescue is a private air rescue service created in and for the people of Botswana. Currently based out of Maun, with plans to expand into the further regions of Botswana, OAR operates a uniquely round the clock emergency medical service for their Patrons in need, including special permission to fly at night [1]. Covering the Okavango Delta, Northern Botswana and the Central Kalahari [2] OAR specialises in airborne rescues and is suitably equipped to operate in even the most challenging of environments.

Established on the 15th of October, 2012 as the first “Helicopter based emergency medical rescue operation in Botswana” [3], OAR was inspired by the Swiss REGA Air Service and still holds true to their pioneering vision today. Like REGA, Okavango Air Rescue receives no financial backing from any government and hence relies solely on the donations and memberships of Patrons [4]. Patronage entitles the holder to two free medically assisted evacuations a year, and the Okavango Air Rescue will only seek an invoice if the patronage holder has medical insurance, whereupon OAR sends an invoice to the insurance company, not the Patron.

OAR has received nationwide recognition, with Health Minister (2009-2014) Dr John Seakgosing speaking at the launch in 2012, noting the service to be a significant milestone in the strengthening of health care services in the country. He stated that both publics and tourist alike would be greatly benefitted in desperate medical situations for having a patronage with the Okavango Air Rescue [5].

OAR operates out of their Maun headquarters at The Village as well as their hangar at Maun airport, with direct access to take off sites.

The Patronage System
In order to finance and sustain key overheads involved with airborne rescue services, the patronage system is utilised by the Okavango Air Rescue as an alternate method of funding. Overcoming the vast financial hurdle involved with keeping helicopters air borne, doctors on standby and a call centre active 24/7 would require over thirty hours of flight for the helicopter to achieve each month (Okavango Air Rescue, 2012). This is not considered a viable option by OAR, nor is receiving subsidies from the government consequently burdening the country, and hence, inspired by REGA (REGA, 2015) the Patron system was brought in to place.

The unique system works on the bases that all Patrons pay a minimal yearly contribution fee enabling the helicopter to perform two rescues per Patron a year, as well as executing rescues for those less fortunate and unable to pay for a patronage.

If a patron has travel insurance, then the Okavango Air Rescue invoices the insurance directly for the full cost of the rescue. OAR’s service is not provided free of charge for insurances and by being able to invoice insurances when possible, Okavango Air Rescue’s yearly patronage fee stays minimal, and they are able to stay airborne, even executing resuces for those who are less fortunate.

Fleet and Equipment
The service provided by OAR utilises a fully medically equipped Bell Jet Ranger 206 III helicopter customised with a long range fuel tank. This has been complimented by Dr Seakgosing, acting Health Minister from 2009-2014, for its ability to fly 600km [6].

As well as being able to carry a stretcher, OAR’s helicopter is also customised with: •Cardiac monitor •Defibrillator with a pace maker •12 and 3 lead ECG, SP02, CO2 and non invasive blood pressure monitors •Infusion pump and syringe drivers •Suction unit with backup •Oxygen ventilator •Suture kits •Urine and Nasogastric catheters •Pulmonary drains with drainage sets •Standard rescue and immobilisation equipment •A special helicopter vacuum mattress and Scoop stretcher

The emergency medication the Okavango air Rescue may provide includes but is not limited to: Adrenaline, Amniodarone, Antibiotics, Antihistamines, Anti-nausea drugs, Atopine, Benzodiazepines, Beta-Blockers, Cortisone, Dopamine, Ephedrine, Furosemide, Insulin, Ketamine, Morphine, Muscle relaxants, Propofol, Salbutamol and Universal Snake Antivenim. Quick Tests such as blood sugar measurements, Urine, Malria, HIV and pregnancy tests can all be done on the spot on location. The recue team operates directly out of Maun airport utilising a private helicopter hangar and medical holding facilities within the airport compound. Onsite secondary medical care is therefore immediately available following medical evacuation, with further arrangements for the patients care easily to hand.

Additional Services
As well as providing crucial medical services for Botswana, the Okavango Air Rescue is also a great support to the local community, leading, sustaining and assisting key projects and events throughout the region.

First Aid courses and manual
Okavango Air Rescue provides Botswana Quality Authority (BQA) approved First Aid courses, Levels I, II and III, as well as Fire Fighting Courses Level I, for both individuals and companies (Okavango Air Rescue, 2012). These courses are provided both in Maun and external locations. To accompany the courses, the Okavango Air Rescue has written teaching manuals. Level I is published, while levels II and III are still being produced. The manuals have been written in English and then subsequently translated into Setswana allowing for pupils to follow the courses according to their needs. Chapters include domestic First Aid, Insect and Scorpion stings, Puzzi Flies, Blister Beetles, as well as Spider and Snake bites that occur throughout Botswana. The manual is also accompanied by explanatory photographs.