Collaboration with the United States Coast Guard Enhances Medical Evacuations in Southeast Alaska

Ruben Parejo, MD

The Cruise Ship Medicine Section recently partnered with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Southeast Alaska Sector to improve medical evacuations from cruise ships in the region. This initiative brought together healthcare professionals, air ambulance providers, and shoreside medical leadership from Alaska. 

Doctors Joseph Scott, Carlos Gonzalez, and Ruben Parejo participated in these discussions, which included representatives from air ambulance providers and the hospital system’s shoreside medical leadership. These conversations facilitated seamless communication between different parties during medical evacuations from ships in the region. 

The discussions provided clarity on the medical treatment capacity of onboard facilities, and a better understanding of the shoreside limitations at various ports of call in Southeast Alaska. Consequently, cruise lines visiting the region implemented plans and educated their onboard medical teams about shoreside capabilities and procedures for evacuations and patient referrals. 

As a result of these efforts, the 2024 Alaska Season achieved successful coordination between all parties involved in medical evacuations, enhancing the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members. This collaboration sets a new standard for medical evacuations in the cruise industry and reflects a commitment to providing the best possible care for those in need. 

The parties involved extend gratitude to the United States Coast Guard SouthEast Alaska Sector, the hospital system’s shoreside medical leadership, and the air ambulance providers for their support and dedication. This initiative represents significant progress in advancing cruise ship medicine and ensuring the safety of all who sail and enjoy beautiful Alaska.