Etihad Airways launches new ambulance service for employees

Based at the Etihad Airways Medical Centre in Etihad Plaza, the high-tech ambulance provides a 24/7 emergency medical service for the airline’s employees in the capital city. From today, employees can dial a special emergency number to call the ambulance. 

Operated by Abu Dhabi’s National Ambulance, the service is staffed by professionally trained and experienced emergency medical technicians (EMT). 

National Ambulance is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), is fully licensed by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi and has also attained ISO standards accreditations of 9001, 14001 and OHSAS 18001. 

Ray Gammell, Etihad Airways’ chief people and performance officer, said: “The launch of this unique service is part of our expanding employee healthcare program, aimed at providing our employees with the right care at the right time. 

“The new ambulance joins a range of best-in-class services for our employees, which support their health and wellbeing, and include fitness programs, family visa application assistance, children’s education assistance and an on-site nursery. 

“We take our duty of care very seriously. This service reinforces Etihad Airways as an employer of choice and reflects our commitment to the ongoing wellbeing of our employees.”

The ambulance is fitted with modern medical emergency equipment and supplies including heart defibrillators, oxygen cylinders, intravenous drips, spinal and traction splints, foldable stretchers and medicines. 

Dr Nadia Bastaki, Etihad Airways’ vice president of Medical Services, said: “In a medical emergency, we recognise the importance of providing a rapid response. Treatment starts as soon as the patient is onboard the ambulance and continues on the journey to the hospital. 

“Our number one priority is to provide an optimal level of care for an employee needing emergency support, which our EMTs are fully trained to deliver.” 

Employee medical services have been offered since 2004 with the Etihad Airways Medical Centre opening in 2010. Staffed by nearly 30 medical experts including 10 doctors, the Centre provides top quality medical services for 13,800 of the airline’s Abu Dhabi-based employees including radiology, full laboratory services, physiotherapy, mammography, dental, nutrition counselling, primary care and aviation health services.