Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The MUG helicopter at AZ Sint-Jan in Bruges will now receive fixed financial support from the federal government, ensuring its crucial emergency medical services for West Flanders.
The MUG helicopter is based at AZ Sint-Jan in Bruges and plays a key role in emergency medical care. Authorities mentioned that for many years, finding money for the MUG helicopter at AZ Sint-Jan in Bruges has been hard. Cities and towns in West Flanders, along with businesses and people, have helped with funding to keep it running. Now, Bruges will receive fixed financial support from the federal government.
According to authorities, this support is important because it costs a lot to operate the helicopter, including fuel and crew salaries. They mentioned that before this help, there was always worry about how to keep the service going for a long time. This led to many fundraising efforts and partnerships with local groups.
Why is the MUG helicopter vital for West Flanders?
Chairman Pablo Annys of AZ Sint-Jan Hospital is happy about the support for the MUG helicopter. He says it is very important for West Flanders. The helicopter responds quickly to medical emergencies. It helps ground ambulances know what to do. Annys also believes training for medical teams is essential. He is glad the service is recognised for its role. This means the MUG helicopter will continue to help the community for years.
“The MUG helicopter is more than necessary, especially in West Flanders. The helicopter is the first to locate the victim and can indicate to other ambulances how to intervene. Structural training is important. I am happy that the recognition is finally there.”
Chairman Pablo Annys says.
The MUG helicopter is based at AZ Sint-Jan in Bruges and plays a key role in emergency medical care. It covers a large area, including West Flanders, parts of East Flanders, and Zeeland in the Netherlands. Each year, it responds to about 700 urgent cases.
According to officials, the helicopter helps patients in serious situations, like accidents or heart problems, by getting them to the right hospital quickly. They mentioned that this service is very important in rural areas where getting to a hospital can take longer. The helicopter can avoid traffic and reach patients much faster than regular ambulances.
According to Hospital management, the MUG helicopter has a team that includes a doctor and paramedics. They can give medical care while flying. The helicopter’s main job is to help patients quickly and keep an eye on them until they reach the hospital.
