When a patient is referred to NETS, a clinical discussion occurs with the NETS consultant. If a decision to activate a medical retrieval team occurs, a retrieval team will be assigned to retrieve the patient.  

Depending on distance and other factors, the team will travel by road, plane or helicopter.   

Many factors can influence the NETS retrieval team’s arrival time. This can depend on the mode of transport, weather, aircraft/vehicle availability, traffic congestion, specialist team availability.

NETS will estimate the team's time of arrival and inform the staff looking after you and your child. The NETS Coordination Centre will let the staff at your hospital know if there is a delay.

No matter how close your hospital is to a NETS team, it still takes time to travel to your child. 

On route and arrival, the NETS team will be in contact with staff caring for your child and obtain an up-to-date assessment. On arrival the team may need to provide your child with immediate care and might not be able to talk with you straight away.

When the NETS team has completed giving any urgent care that your child may need, they will explain to you:  

• the reasons NETS has been called
• the treatment that has been given  
• what to expect during the next few hours or days 

While the NETS team is travelling, the hospital staff caring for your child will discuss the best treatment with various specialists.  

These telephone conferences and consultations are organised by the NETS Coordination Centre.  

If information is repeated, it is only to make sure nothing is left out.  

Do not be afraid to ask questions. It is very important that you know what is happening to your child and why.

The NETS team will ask you about your needs and preferences.

It may be necessary to give additional treatment or perform certain procedures to ensure the best possible conditions for transport.