In response to the security situation in northern Israel, Magen David Adom carried out a special operation on Monday morning to transfer nine premature babies from Carmel Medical Center to fortified hospitals in Haifa and Hadera. This operation was conducted using a cutting-edge intensive care bus, the first of its kind in Israel, capable of transporting seven patients lying down and ten seated patients simultaneously.
The new bus, which recently joined MDA’s fleet of intensive care buses, was designed and developed based on lessons learned from “Black Sabbath.” It is equipped with advanced technologies that enable simultaneous treatment of multiple patients. This includes an advanced medication system, an oxygen system for all patients, high-tech equipment such as monitors and ventilators, electrical outlets near every bed, and the ability to transport patients on ECMO machines.
The bus is staffed by specially trained medical teams and features a unique hydraulic loading system for maximum ease in transferring patients.
Dr. Keren Lavi-Nevo, head of the Neonatal Unit at Carmel Medical Center, noted that the premature babies will continue to be cared for by Carmel’s medical team throughout their stay in the new neonatal units.
MDA CEO Eli Bin emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to Israel’s emergency medical needs. He highlighted that the new bus will provide better, faster, and more efficient medical service to the citizens of the country.
The bus, designed for intercity use, is set to operate nationwide when necessary and can reach speeds needed for fast and safe transfers according to road conditions. Measuring 4 meters in height, 2.55 meters in width, and 14 meters in length, the bus provides ample space for patients, accompanying personnel, and medical teams.
