Online Reporter
Takudzwa Karowangoro
Herald Correspondent
HELIDRIVE Air Ambulance Services is continuing to spread its wings across Zimbabwe, providing critical emergency medical transport, especially in rural areas.
The number of these rescues have been largely in remote areas, with the service having saved over 800 lives nationwide since its launch in August last year.
Six air ambulances are currently based in Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, ensuring nationwide coverage.
In separate interviews, patients praised HeliDrive Air Ambulance Services for saving their lives and providing timely emergency support.
“HeliDrive saved my life. I was in a critical condition and needed urgent care. The air ambulance took me to Harare, where I safely delivered twins,” said Chipo Katsande from Chakari, Chegutu.
Peter Kahari, a miner from Concession, was equally excited about the current services being offered.
“I fell into a mining pit and lost consciousness. I woke up in a helicopter on my way to Parirenyatwa Hospital. After two weeks of treatment, I was back at work. I thank the President for making this service free.”
“Our son needed an emergency operation. HeliDrive flew him to Harare in time, and he got the care he needed. The service was prompt, efficient, and professional,” said Mr Kenneth Shoko.
To date, air ambulances have reached hospitals in Musami, Madziva, Makonde, Sadza, West Nicholson, Victoria Falls, Gwanda, Beitbridge Rural, Chiredzi, Mukwasine, and Mt Darwin.
In rural Matabeleland the ambulances have covered Tshelanyemba Hospital, Tsholotsho Hospital, Brunapeg, Mapisa, Mberengwa, Inyathi, Nkayi, Esigodini Hospital, Lupane, Musume and Gwanda.
This has been strengthening Zimbabwe’s emergency response system.
A medical professional from Parirenyatwa group of hospitals praised the service. “These ambulances have been a game-changer for our hospitals. We’ve been able to receive patients from remote areas who would otherwise not have had access to medical care.” said Dr Peter Mutinhiri
The initiative is a critical step in President Mnangagwa’s efforts to modernise Zimbabwe’s healthcare system and improve access to specialised medical care, particularly given the high number of road traffic accidents.
The service has already airlifted numerous patients, including children, and provides intensive care-level treatment, overcoming geographical barriers to reach those in need.
The air ambulance service has primarily responded to maternal cases, road accidents and critical illnesses, swiftly transferring patients from remote areas to major hospitals.
Last year, the country received 6 Russian-made Ansat and Mi-17 helicopters in a deal initiated by President Mnangagwa to ensure that patients in the public health system have access to top-class medical care.
