CareFlight Achieves Rare Triple Commendation in National Accreditation, Setting Benchmark for Aeromedical Services

CareFlight is among one of the first aeromedical organisations in Australia to achieve three formal commendations and no recommendations for improvement in its recent accreditation against the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards for Ambulance Services.

This is a rare and significant achievement in a sector that combines the high-risk demands of aviation with the complexities of emergency critical care.

The NSQHS Standards, set by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, define the national benchmark for patient safety, clinical governance, and culturally safe care. CareFlight’s results confirm that its systems not only meet but, in several areas, exceed these national standards, ensuring patients receive safe, timely and culturally appropriate care.

The assessors highlighted three areas of excellence:
• Excellence in Education and Training.
• CareFlight and Viva In-Language Program.
• Strength and effectiveness in supporting communicating for safety among multidisciplinary teams.

CareFlight CEO Mick Frewen said the recognition reflects the dedication of teams across the organisation.
“Every member of CareFlight contributes to delivering safe, responsive care across our communities,” he said. “I’m personally involved in ensuring that governance and oversight support not only the safety of our patients but the needs of communities in Australia. These commendations are an opportunity to celebrate our teams and reaffirm our commitment to continuous improvement.”

Renata Melan, CareFlight’s General Manager of Clinical Services, said the accreditation demonstrates CareFlight’s patient-centred approach.
“Our priority is always the people we serve. Each day, our teams provide care that is safe, timely, and compassionate, tailored to the needs of the communities we support.”

Dr Toby Fogg, National Medical Director added:
“Providing care that is accessible, culturally aware, and respectful makes a real difference to the communities we serve. This recognition reinforces our responsibility to deliver health services that respond to local needs.”

Jodie Mills, General Manager of CareFlight NT Operations, praised the In-Language Program for empowering patients with healthcare rights in nine First Nations languages and commended the teamwork and communication of CareFlight’s high-performing teams.
“Cultural safety is central to every patient’s journey with CareFlight. Delivering healthcare in language is a milestone for aeromedical services. Aviation and medicine are complex partners, so being recognised for our communication and collaboration across both is a career highlight.”

CareFlight’s achievement is particularly notable in an industry where accreditation is uncommon. By demonstrating leadership in safety, governance, and cultural care, the organisation sets a benchmark for other aeromedical operators.

CareFlight extends its sincere thanks to staff, partners, and communities who contribute to the delivery of high-quality, lifesaving care every day. The organisation remains committed to upholding the highest standards in aeromedical services nationwide.