Emergency evacuation for serious injury in remote Somalia
A medical emergency was reported involving a serious injury in a remote location in Somalia. The call was taken by a Healix medical assistance coordinator, who quickly recognised the severity and transferred it to our medical team for immediate clinical oversight.
Challenge
The patient was en route to Dayah District Hospital, the only major facility in the area. Information was limited and only available from a colleague on the ground. Based on the nature of the injury, air ambulance evacuation would likely be needed - potentially before full assessment on arrival.
Approach
The Healix medical team gathered all available clinical details, confirmed the patient’s destination and ensured direct contact with the person accompanying him. Our evacuation team immediately began working on options for air transfer from Dusmareb to Nairobi, without waiting for a full hospital assessment. This parallel planning saved critical time.
Our preferred air ambulance partner in Nairobi has strong operational experience in Somalia and was placed on standby. Plans included ground transfers at both ends and pre-clearance at the receiving hospital - Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi.
Once the patient arrived at Dayah District Hospital, we coordinated directly with the treating doctor to confirm injury details, assess stability for evacuation and finalise timing. Throughout, our team stayed in contact with local clinicians to monitor the patient’s condition and ensure handover went smoothly.
Outcome
The patient was successfully stabilised, transferred by air to Nairobi and admitted directly to a prepared receiving facility. Ongoing clinical oversight by Healix continued post-transfer, enabling planning for future repatriation as the patient recovered.
This case reflects the value of speed, structured decision-making and local knowledge when managing a high-risk injury in a remote, high-threat setting.