ExxonMobil backing air ambulance service

ST John Ambulance’s air ambulance service will continue with support from ExxonMobil PNG, chief executive officer Matt Cannon says.
“Last year, the air ambulance completed 46 missions with 157 hours spent in the air helping people reach vital medical care,” he said.
“We know there are many more mothers and neonates needing rescue by air. That is why we are pleased ExxonMobil has come on board to support the flying medical team and air ambulance.”
Cannon said the ambulance control centre handled tens of thousands of calls each year and about 20 per cent are maternal-related emergencies.
“When there is no road access, we are unable to reach out to those suffering life-threatening emergency, like post-partum bleeding,” he said.
“Previously we would scramble to try to find funding to launch an air medical evacuation.
“Tragically, patients can die when help from an ambulance did not reach them in time.
“It is truly devastating for a family and the entire village, when a mother dies giving birth. No mother should die giving life.”
Cannon said launching a helicopter for medical evacuations in remote parts of Central or Gulf was very expensive.
ExxonMobil PNG’s medicine and occupational health manager Dr Nirven Kumar said: “Our commitment includes making funding available to support public health initiatives like the St John air ambulance service.
“It is hoped that through this service, lives will be saved by delivering emergency medical services to people in remote locations.”