Administrative Deputy Minister Wu Tang-An of the Ministry of the Interior visited the National Airborne Service Corps (NASC) Taitung Base this afternoon (August 12th) to assess the emergency aerial rescue mechanisms and the execution of emergency medical evacuations for the outlying islands in the eastern region. He expressed his appreciation and recognition for the dedication and hard work of NASC members, the National Fire Agency's Special Search and Rescue Team, the Coast Guard Administration, and the Ministry of Health and Welfare's emergency response teams.
Wu pointed out that the emergency medical evacuations for Lanyu (Orchid Island) and Green Island in Taitung County are supported by helicopters dispatched from the Taitung base, with one aircraft and its crew on standby 24 hours a day. From 2020 to July 2024, a total of 284 emergency medical evacuation sorties were conducted, ensuring nearly 300 island residents received the medical care they needed, thereby addressing critical healthcare needs for these remote communities.
During the execution of rescue missions or emergency medical evacuations from the outlying islands, the NASC prioritizes transporting patients to the nearest medical facility. If direct transport to a Ministry of Health and Welfare-designated hospital is not feasible, an ambulance is stationed at the airport to expedite the transfer of the patient to healthcare providers for further treatment.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions and complex terrain, Wu expressed his gratitude for the courage and perseverance of the NASC and associated teams. He also urged them to prioritize flight safety and personal safety during rescue missions, ensuring that every mission is completed safely and successfully.
