How Drones Made a Significant Impact To The Medical Industry
How Drones Made a Significant Impact To The Medical Industry
Guest post by Amanda Shaffer from Advexure Aerial & Action Photography Systems
Some of the leading causes of death in the U.S. could be alleviated with the use of drone technology. Drone technology reduces downtime in delivery of medical supplies in war and disaster zones, rural areas and anywhere in a city where urgent medical response is needed.
First Drone Delivery Service
Healthcare clinics like Health Wagon have utilized drone technology to deliver medications to remote areas like Appalachia in partnership with the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) which was the first-ever drone delivery service approved by the the Federal Aviation Administration. The drone delivery service made it possible to deliver medications in 15 minutes instead of a 2-hour drive and lowered costs of the transport of medical items.
Ambulance Drones
Smart technology using drones with Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) have been proven effective in saving lives from cardiac arrest. These devices are better known as ambulance drones developed by Dutch interactive designer Alec Momont. The ambulance drones have a capacity to travel over 60 miles per hour and can reach a patient in a minute at a 7 mile zone.
Faster HIV Testing
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is prevalent among citizens living in sub-Saharan Africa, known as a disease-prone area. There are many basic health concerns and a shortage of health workers, but with drone deliveries of blood samples and medications shouldered by non-profit organizations and private agencies, these problems are beginning to be addressed, and the growing healthcare concern in the area is slowing.
Disaster Aid
Aside from addressing numerous health concerns, drones have been utilized as part of a search and rescue operations because of their accurate remote sensors which can detect trapped citizens in a collapsed building or help put out fire through specialized fire-spotting sensors. Drones can also calculate damage or weak spots from terrorist attacks or oil spills and map areas that are prone to earthquakes.
FAA requirements
While medical response is an urgent need for most healthcare organizations, FAA standards still need to be followed. FAA requirements for healthcare organizations who wish to use drones as part of their system include:
Drone Pilots Must Past The Medical Exam, Eligibility Requirements And The Course For Becoming A Certified Drone Pilot
Drones are considered aircrafts, so one must register via FAA website and make sure to fulfill all the requirements needed and pass the course to be a Certified Drone Pilot.
Your Drone Must Be Registered Under FAA For Commercial Use
Drones used for commercial or different purposes must be registered under FAA’s Part 107 Rule at a cost of $5 which is valid for 3 years. Waivers or accident reports are also issued under this rule.
Pilots Should Abide In Existing Rules In Drone Flying In The Particular Area
Safety procedures and limitations in drone flying implemented by the FAA should also be followed. The rules vary across each city.
Drone technology has given a more convenient and accurate way of research for prevention, safety and relief from disaster and healthcare problems. With the proper training, certification and aid of medical professionals, drones can significantly impact communities needing medical aid in a positive and empowering way.
