The “Flying Doctors” service in Tanzania, also known as the AMREF Flying Doctors service, is an essential and life-saving medical assistance and emergency evacuation service provided by the African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF). The service operates primarily in Tanzania, but it also extends its reach to other neighbouring countries.

The Flying Doctors service is designed to provide medical aid and evacuation for people who are in remote or inaccessible areas and require urgent medical attention. This includes locals and tourists who may find themselves in emergencies far from medical facilities. The service aims to bridge the gap between medical emergencies and the availability of proper medical facilities.

Here are some key features and services provided by the Flying Doctors in Tanzania:

1. Emergency Medical Evacuation: The service has aircraft equipped with medical facilities and personnel to transport patients to the nearest medical facility or hospital that can handle their specific medical needs. This is particularly crucial in areas with limited or non-existent access to medical facilities.
2. Medical Assistance and Consultation: The Flying Doctors service provides medical advice and consultation to individuals who may require immediate medical attention or guidance in critical situations. They can provide information and instructions on handling emergencies until proper medical help arrives.
3. On-Board Medical Teams: The aircraft used by the Flying Doctors are staffed with trained medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, who can provide immediate medical care during transportation.
4. Air Ambulance Services: The service functions as an air ambulance, providing swift and efficient transportation of patients to the nearest medical facilities with appropriate medical expertise.
5. Coverage Area: The Flying Doctors service covers vast regions of Tanzania, including remote areas and national parks. Additionally, they may extend their services to neighbouring countries if required.
6. Non-Discrimination: The service is open to residents and foreign tourists. Anyone needing urgent medical assistance can avail of their services, regardless of nationality or background.

It is important to note that the Flying Doctors service is not an insurance provider, and patients are responsible for their medical expenses and any costs incurred during evacuation. It is highly recommended that travellers have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation prices to complement the services offered by the Flying Doctors.

Overall, the Flying Doctors service is critical in providing timely and life-saving medical assistance to those in need, contributing significantly to the safety and well-being of individuals travelling and residing in remote areas of Tanzania.