Medical evacuation from a high-altitude mining site
An engineer at the Bolivar mine in Bolivia, a remote site at 16,000 feet elevation, required urgent medical evacuation. Healix was notified by our insurer client and immediately tagged the case as “Priority One” due to the location and the patient’s likely condition.
Challenge
The altitude and geography posed risks. The nearest airstrip was 90 minutes away by road, at high elevation and only operational during daylight hours. Evacuation needed to happen quickly, safely and in coordination with on-site medics, while ensuring the receiving hospital was fully briefed and ready.
Approach
Once activated, Healix escalated the case to senior clinical and operations staff. Our medical team contacted the mine’s remote medic to assess the patient’s condition, while our logistics team reviewed evacuation options.
The primary plan was an air ambulance to Santiago, operated by our trusted Chilean partner using a medically equipped aircraft able to land safely at Oruro airport during daylight. We confirmed Clinica Alemana in Santiago as the receiving hospital.
Outcome
The patient was transferred safely by air ambulance and admitted to a high-standard facility in Santiago. Healix stayed in contact with the hospital’s medical team, reviewed reports, and monitored progress. Once stable, we worked with the client to plan the next stage of care, including potential repatriation.
This case shows how a well-practised response, local capability and careful planning can turn a remote-site medical crisis into a managed and effective intervention.