Flying Doctor in funds quest

The Royal Flying Doctor Service has launched a fund to boost its patient capacity in an effort to help combat COVID-19.

The fund will cater for an expected 25 per cent increase in surge capacity at an estimated cost of $15 million over the next six months.

The money raised from the Response Ready for WA appeal would go towards bolstering frontline personnel including doctors, nurses and pilots. Funds would also be invested in aircraft and personal protective equipment to serve regional communities across WA, and provide the tools, equipment and consumable supplies for on-the-ground emergencies.

Industry partners have provided support, with BHP donating $2 million, while Fortescue Metals Group, Chevron, Rio Tinto, CBH Group, and Chamber of Minerals and Energy members have pledged funds.

RFDS Western Operations chief Rebecca Tomkinson said the service relied on the generosity of funders.

“The response to, and recovery from, COVID-19 will be a critical, ongoing team effort,” she said.

“We are incredibly grateful for the critical support from BHP which will assist us towards bolstering our service for the surge capacity we will need to respond across the regions.”