Helicopter rescue launched for remote Vancouver Island medical incident

A medical emergency at a remote location off Vancouver Island led to a helicopter hoist rescue and transfer to paramedics Wednesday evening.

The Alberni Valley Rescue Squad said in a social media post it was requested by the Westcoast Search and Rescue Society to assist with a patient near Hot Springs Cove.

Three members from the squad’s hoist and CDFL team, who are also part of its advanced medical team, responded to the call. Air operations were supported by Ascent Helicopters Ltd.

The patient had a medical check at the scene before being airlifted by helicopter using a hoist system due to the area’s remote access.

Once extracted, the patient was transferred to BC Emergency Health Services for further care.