The Journal of air medical transport
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The Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System (TISS) was evaluated as an instrument to determine appropriate use of an air medical program (AMP) from a retrospective standpoint. TISS scores of 376 consecutive patient transports to the sponsor institution were compared to two other methods of judging appropriateness of air transport: a chart review and a review of patient outcome which included length of hospital stay, need for emergency surgery, mortality rates, and Trauma Scores. ⋯ We concluded that the TISS is a valid instrument for use in determining the appropriateness of air medical transports. The TISS is used as a quality assurance tool during retrospective, bi-weekly patient review sessions; and follow-up on appropriate use of the helicopter is provided to referring and receiving agencies accordingly.