A delegation from the U.S. space agency visited the facilities of the Hospital Universitario de Canarias (HUC) to assess its healthcare capabilities. NASA's interest in the Canary Islands stems from their strategic location, making them a crucial point for rescue operations and contingencies in the Atlantic.
“"They have chosen us as a possible reference area for emergencies on the West African coast, Macaronesia, and part of the European coast."
The meeting, led by medical director James Polk, is part of a series of visits the NASA delegation will conduct across the archipelago. Tomorrow, the delegation is scheduled to visit the Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria to learn about its resources. Both hospital complexes, along with the Canarian Emergency Service (SUC) and Maritime Rescue in Tenerife, will be responsible for providing healthcare assistance in the event of astronaut rescues or the activation of contingency scenarios.
The collaboration encompasses everything from rescue assistance to the provision of specialized healthcare services. NASA has shown particular interest in the hyperbaric chamber, traumatology and radiodiagnosis services, and critical care units at the Canarian centers. This agreement represents a historic opportunity that highlights the capability and professionalism of the SCS and its teams.
