Doctor on Board (DoB) Program
The Growing Medical Risk in the Skies
To address the shortcomings of the current identified in-flight medical response protocols, SkyClin launched the Doctor On Board Program, an initiative at the core of its mission to revamp the process for handling inflight medical emergencies.
The program provides a proactive, structured approach that redefines how in-flight medical emergencies are managed and contributes to improved and more efficient response.
Rather than relying on chance or last-minute announcements, the program ensures that verified medical professionals are known to the crew before the flight even departs.
A System Still Built on Chance
Despite this growing need, current in-flight medical emergency protocols still rely on general announcements and chance. When a medical emergency occurs, the standard procedure followed by the cabin crew is to make an announcement:
"Ladies and gentlemen, if there is a doctor on board, please press your call button"
This practice has remained virtually unchanged since the early days of commercial aviation and comes with a number of critical drawbacks, both medically and operationally:
Lack of certainty about the presence of a qualified doctor
General announcements can cause panic or draw unnecessary attention
Curious passengers may crowd the scene and create unnecessary chaos
Doctors may hesitate to assist due to unfamiliarity with onboard medical equipment
Unqualified helpers may risk providing improper care
Medical professionals may miss announcements while sleeping or watching a movie
Doctors intervene inefficiently due to limited knowledge of airline procedures and available medical equipment
Did you know?
$50,000 - 600,000 USD
A single flight diversion can cost an airline anywhere from $50,000 to over $600,000, factoring in fuel, landing fees, passenger rebooking, and crew logistics.
1 out of 604 flights
Medical emergencies occur on approximately 1 in every 604 flights.
40% chance to find medical support
In about 62% of in-flight medical emergencies get no support from a medical professional.
To address the shortcomings of the current identified in-flight medical response protocols, SkyClin launched the Doctor On Board Program, an initiative at the core of its mission to revamp the process for handling inflight medical emergencies. The program provides a proactive, structured approach that redefines how in-flight medical emergencies are managed and contributes to improved and more efficient response.
Rather than relying on chance or last-minute announcements, the program ensures that verified medical professionals are known to the crew before the flight even departs.
What the Program Offers?
Member doctors receive exclusive flight discounts and travel perks as recognition from our partner airlines for their important role and willingness to assist during emergencies
SkyClin provides members with general awareness of the medical equipment available on board, the scope of cabin crew first aid training, and airline-standard emergency protocols, ensuring that the doctors are prepared and equipped to respond more confidently and efficiently when needed.
When a member books a flight through SkyClin, their presence, seat number, and credentials are discreetly shared with the flight crew before departure, eliminating guesswork during emergencies and allowing for immediate, informed support
By offering a limited number of discounted tickets to members on specific flights, SkyClin helps to strategically distribute medical professionals, increasing the likelihood that each flight has a qualified responder onboard.
How it works:
Sign Up
Explore our different membership tiers and apply for the most suitable in just minutes.
Get Verified
Our team will review and verify your credentials within 24 hours.
Book your flight
You will have access to your own SkyClin portal, where you can book flights and enjoy the wide range of benefits.
Fly with Purpose
Before you board your flight, your name and seat number will be flagged to the flight crew before takeoff, ensuring they know exactly who to call when it counts.
Support When It Matters
In case of an in-flight medical emergency, you will be approached by the flight crew to provide the needed support.
Report
After each flight, SkyClin members are requested to submit a brief report through the SkyClin portal.
Not Just a Program, but also a Movement
By building a global network of ready, recognized, and informed doctors, we are working towards a future where pre-identified medical presence becomes the industry standard. Whether you usually fly for work or leisure, your presence can make all the difference, and it all starts with YOU!
Terms & Conditions
Limited Seat Availability
A limited number of seats are available on each flight. Doctors are encouraged to book well in advance to secure access to SkyClin's preferred rates
Medical Expertise Required
Member doctors are expected to assist and support the cabin crew during onboard medical emergencies. However, doctors should only intervene in cases that fall within their area of expertise. If a situation exceeds their knowledge or capabilities, they are encouraged to inform the crew and respectfully decline to intervene.
Captain's Final Authority
The decision to divert a flight rests solely with the captain. Doctors serve in an advisory capacity and may offer guidance, but they are not responsible for the final decision.
Substance Prohibition
Consumption of alcohol or use of sleeping pills is strictly prohibited for member doctors during flights booked through SkyClin.
Post-Flight Reporting
Doctors must submit a post-flight report through their SkyClin portal for any medical emergencies handled. Submission of this report is required to proceed with future flight bookings through SkyClin.