PETALING JAYA: They fly over dense forests and challenging terrain to bring healthcare to villagers in the interior of Sabah and Sarawak who would otherwise take hours if not days to reach the nearest clinic or hospital.
The Flying Doctor Service (FDS) has been a medical lifeline for thousands of villagers since the 1970s.
Dr J (who requested his full name not to be used), who is based in Sarawak and had served in the FDS, said the warm gratitude of the people they served in these remote areas made every trip worthwhile.
“I feel glad and excited to be able to serve in FDS to reach out to the very remote areas. The main drive is the gratitude and hospitality we received from all these villagers whenever we go over and bring our services,” the 32-year-old said in an interview.
“They look forward to our visits every time, especially the elderly folks, and they absolutely feel very thankful for our services.
“There were times when I thought of the risks we have to take, as we flew over dense jungles and mountains, but the thought of our needed services and the community’s healthcare needs always helped me overcome all worries,” he added.
He said the FDS brings about a better health equity to rural communities.
“I recall a case of a special needs woman with a mental health condition who had issues with malnutrition.
“She lives in a remote village, taking around five to eight hours by river and road to the nearest hospital.
“The family members had problems taking her to the hospital whenever she had some issues requiring medical attention.
“After a long period of hospitalisation and optimisation, the hospital team had a discussion with our FDS team to discuss her long term plan of care.
“Thankfully, we have managed to maintain her in good health over the years.
“This case remains close to my heart because of the role FDS plays in her life,” he said.
Asked on whether he had ever feared for his life in his three years in the FDS, Dr J said while the feeling was there, he always had faith in the helicopter’s pilot and maintenance crew.
“They always make sure that the helicopter is fit to fly, with thorough checkups every time before every flight. I also say a prayer before every flight,” he said.
A FDS flight typically operates with a five person team comprising a pilot, a doctor, a medical assistant and two nurses.
“From my experience in FDS, the typical duties of the medical officer and assistant medical officer are preparing and dispensing medication, patient consultation, and doing basic procedures like taking blood and dressings if required, while the nurses will handle the maternal and child health parts, dealing with children and women, including family planning,” he said.
Dr J’s team would make monthly visits to their designated areas unless they were hindered by bad weather or technical issues.
He said there are some eight teams across Sarawak, with three helicopters (including the one that just crashed) serving on a rotational basis.
FDS personnel are paid an allowance of RM30 per flight. However, if the flight is cancelled, no payment is made.
Apart from flights, rural healthcare services are also delivered through river routes, as well as four-wheel-drive vehicles in cases where trails are accessible.
