Norway sets aside 60 million kroner for a permanent ambulance helicopter base in Kirkenes
In next year's state budget, the Norwegian government proposes to allocate NOK 60 million for a permanent ambulance helicopter in Kirkenes.
In next year’s state budget, the Norwegian government proposes to allocate NOK 60 million for a permanent ambulance helicopter in Kirkenes.
This is the first time in history that there will be a permanent ambulance helicopter base in East Finnmark, Minister of Health and Care Services Bent Høie (H) told news bureau NTB.
“A permanent ambulance helicopter base in Kirkenes entails a historic strengthening of ambulance preparedness in East Finnmark and is important for ensuring the population’s life and health,” Høie said.
Timeline
From December last year to July this year, a helicopter from the Armed Forces was temporarily stationed in Kirkenes.
In January and April of 2020, Høie commissioned the regional health authorities to station a civilian ambulance helicopter in Kirkenes from July 15.
As a result, an ambulance helicopter from Norsk Luftambulanse AS replaced the Armed Forces helicopter.
Norsk Luftambulanse AS will cover the ambulance helicopter preparedness in East Finnmark up to January 31, 2021.
© NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today
