Semper Gumby: Program Flexibility in the Midst of Chaos

Running an air medical program is difficult, and it is even more challenging in a developing nation. As the security and stability of Haiti deteriorated, Haiti Air Ambulance faced problems that few (if any) program leaders have had to deal with. As the country plunged into complete chaos, the leadership had to continue to be flexible, adaptive, and prioritize. In this session, the leadership of Haiti Air Ambulance will review the lessons learned from fuel shortages, supply chain disruption, staffing shortages, physical security threats (kidnapping and violent protests). The atypical approach to problem solving allowed the program to continue operations despite the country being classified among the most dangerous countries in the world. The lessons learned and approach to these challenges offer valuable insight and advice to other program leaders.