MD Onboard, a company based in New York State, offers airlines access to aviation-trained medical emergency specialists to address in-flight medical emergencies. Grant Jeffery, the CEO of MD Onboard, explained that their service connects pilots and cabin crew with a “medical team [that is] trained in aerospace medicine.” This team has a deep understanding of altitude effects on the human body and flight physiology.
The medical team includes paramedics familiar with cabin crew situations and can be supported by emergency physicians when needed. MD Onboard helps airline personnel make decisions about passenger fitness to fly by considering health conditions, airline policies, and regulations regarding passenger rights. The company provides teleconference access to medical professionals for gate agents and flight attendants who may need assistance making boarding decisions.
Jeffery noted that MD Onboard assists when passengers experience issues like suspected strokes or injuries from turbulence. Their staff guides aircrew through protocols and decision-making processes regarding diversions or continuing flights. The company also checks aircraft medical equipment and recommends necessary items such as first aid kits and Automated External Defibrillators.
In addition to commercial airlines, MD Onboard supports private aviation by offering similar services and training for private flight attendants and pilots. Jeffery emphasized the company’s mission: “A course of treatment that the [cabin crew] can undertake to make the passenger comfortable while they continue to destination.”
Passengers will be reassured knowing that airlines using MD Onboard effectively have physicians and paramedics on call during flights.
