Citation

Gish O, Walker G. Int. J. Health Serv. 1978; 8(4): 633-651.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, Baywood Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

730411

Abstract

Interest in mobile health units for developing countries has led to the advocacy of sophisticated transport systems including air transport. However, the medical needs of Third World countries do not usually indicate air transport as a cost efficient delivery method. Flying health services are justified in conjunction with fixed health facilities and regular visiting of farflung stations. Land vehicles, cars, and trucks, should be used for support supervision for lower-level institutions and care of selected screened patients. The high cost of fuel and maintenance prohibits any but the most necessary transportation. Land vehicles are more desirable than airplanes because the medical personnel are more likely to see more people en route and remain longer in an outpost once they have arrived. Too often health services must be rushed to accomodate flying conditions and taking off before dark. More attention should be given to appropriate low-technology transport like bicycles, animals, or motorcycles.

Language: en