Problem

The Philadelphia Assistance Centre received an urgent request for a medically necessary repatriation from Russia home the United States. This private case was a quick turn-around, with the patient’s visa set to expire in just a few days. Hospitalised at state psychiatric facility in Moscow since Jan. 23, 2025 he needed to be flown back to the Midwest.

Solution

The patient’s brother arrived in Moscow on Feb. 9 and meet with doctor the following day. An International SOS physician in Dubai reviewed the case, translated the documents and approved the patient as “fit to fly” commercial with a medical escort.

International SOS moved the patient on Feb.14, with two escort teams due to the numerous logistical challenges. The first medical team, stationed in Dubai, picked up the patient and travelled from Moscow to Istanbul. From there, a U.S. medical escort was waiting to continue travel from Istanbul to St. Louis.

Impact

The entire mission took only a few days, including a little over 24 hours of travel time, with the patient arriving home safely and recovering with his family.

ROI

With the medical and logistics knowledge of International SOS experts, the mission was flawlessly executed in a short timeframe, allowing the patient to return home and recover in a familiar location and with family.