The Canadian Red Cross is always reviewing what’s available and seeking new ways to improve the quality of the medical services, or its rapidity. Any innovation that is adopted must be durable and able to function in the rugged, remote areas where the ERU is deployed.
Examples of innovations that are currently being researched or piloted:
- Using drones to survey an affected area so we know where to send mobile teams
- Mobile digital imaging equipment such as portable x-ray and ultrasound machines that can easily be brought to remote locations
- Finding innovative solutions to package equipment so it’s lighter and quicker to setup
- Solar energy to reduce ecological footprint and reduce dependence to fossil fuels
- 3D printing to produce specific pieces of equipment right in the disaster zone