AP Companies recently managed a difficult medical evacuation and repatriation from the Atacama Desert in Chile.
A 43-year-old tourist, John, was hiking in the Atacama Desert when he suddenly collapsed with severe stomach pain. He was taken to a small local clinic where doctors diagnosed him with acute pancreatitis, a serious condition requiring urgent specialized care. The clinic did not have the necessary equipment, so John's travel insurance contacted AP Companies to arrange an emergency evacuation. Given the remote location and John's worsening condition, AP Companies suggested that an air ambulance to Santiago, where advanced medical care was available, was the best option.
AP Companies quickly organized an air ambulance, as the desert’s rugged terrain made ground transport impossible and John's situation was critical. Thanks to AP Companies' strong partnerships with air ambulance services in Latin America, they secured a medical aircraft within hours. The air ambulance team was specially trained to keep John stable during the flight. AP Companies also coordinated with the nearest airport to make sure the plane could land smoothly.
While the air ambulance was on its way, AP Companies Team worked with the local clinic to prepare John for the flight and collected his medical information. John's family and insurance company were constantly kept informed and updated.
The air ambulance arrived quickly, and John was safely transferred onto the aircraft. During the flight to Santiago the medical team closely monitored John’s condition. Thanks to their expertise John's condition stayed stable throughout the flight.
Upon his arrival in Santiago, a ground ambulance and medical personnel were waiting for the patient at the tarmac, prepared and informed of the diagnosis and medical situation in real time to facilitate his transfer to the chosen clinic, which was ready for John's arrival. In such critical situations, a short stretch like the journey from the airport to the clinic can be decisive . John was immediately admitted to the ICU. After a few days, John’s condition improved, but it was clear he needed longer treatment. It was decided he would continue his recovery in the United States, where he could be close to his family and use his local insurance.
Once John was well enough to travel, AP Companies arranged his return to the U.S. (New York). Since air ambulance services for long distances are expensive, and the patients’ condition would allow travelling with a regular flight, AP Companies suggested to repatriate him on a commercial flight, with a medical escort to take care of him. This was a more affordable option that still provided the medical attention John needed.
AP Companies worked with the airline to arrange a comfortable seating area for John. A doctor from AP Companies' team, based in the region, traveled with him to ensure his safety. AP Companies has also coordinated with authorities at both airports to ensure smooth boarding and quick customs clearance.
John’s return to New York went smoothly. The medical escort monitored his condition throughout the flight, managing his pain and keeping him stable. Upon landing, AP Companies had arranged for ground transportation to take the patient to a local hospital where he could continue his recovery.
This case highlights the complexity of medical evacuations from remote areas like the Atacama Desert. Despite the challenges of distance, limited medical facilities, and the patients’ critical condition, AP Companies' quick decisions, expertise, and strong local relationships made the evacuation and repatriation a success.
