The pilot project is a widely supported initiative in which physicians also participate. In addition to the GZA-ZNA group, UZA, the Antwerp University Hospital, is also a partner. Speed is essential for both hospital groups, especially for the transport of chemotherapy drugs between different sites. “Drones can be an important part of the solution. We already have landing and loading areas on the roofs of our hospitals“, emphasizes Mr. Duchateau.
In theory, drones could collect a sample from a patient’s home and then take it to a research lab. Drones could also, in the future, deliver equipment, such as a defibrillator, to the scene of an accident that requires urgent intervention.
However, drones will not be an immediate reality over the metropolis. The year 2024 is mentioned, the time to obtain the required permits and make the necessary investments.
In autumn 2019, Helicus was already hoping to be able to carry out the first drone flights between Antwerp hospitals, but he had not obtained the authorizations required to implement his project.
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