Section IX details the facilities
available for rendering assistance in Antarctica including medical, transport services and
emergency shelters.
McMurdo Station
Medical Facilities
During the winter-over period there is a six-bed medical and
dental facility with 1 doctor and 2 medical assistants. These personnel are augmented with up to 12
emergency medical technicians assigned to the Fire Department. During the summer this facility is
staffed with 2 physicians, 2 physicians’ assistants or nurse practitioners, 1 dentist and dental
assistant, 1 radiographic technician, 1 laboratory technician, 1 physical therapist, and 4 emergency
medical responders. These personnel are augmented with up to 40 emergency medical technicians
assigned to the Fire Department.
Transport Services
From October to mid-December, airlift from McMurdo to
Christchurch via C-5, C-141, C-130 and TC-130 aircraft is available. From mid-December to
mid-February, airlift by LC-130 aircraft is available. Possibility of transport via surface
when available (see Section II for dates available).
Available Shelter
Over 100 covered structures are available at McMurdo Station.
Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station
Medical Facilities
1 civilian doctor is on-station at South Pole year round.
Transport Services
LC-130 aircraft are available only on call from McMurdo
Station from November to mid-February.
Available Shelter
South Pole Station consists of three buildings under a
geodesic dome adjoined and connected to a series of four arches also containing buildings.
Palmer Station
Medical Facilities
1 civilian doctor is on-station at Palmer Station year round.
Transport Services
The R/V LAWRENCE M. GOULD is the primary means of transport
to and from Palmer Station. In extreme circumstances Twin Otter landings are possible on the glacier.
Available Shelter
Two buildings comprise the available shelter at Palmer
Station.
Marble Point Camp
Medical Facilities
None
Transport Services
Helicopter support from McMurdo Station is available
(weather dependent).
Available Shelter
Three structures comprise Marble Point Camp, two for
berthing up to six persons, and one that houses a generator and workshop.
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