John Hinds (doctor)

Northern Irish doctor and motorcycle enthusiast

John Hinds (21 March 1980 – 4 July 2015) was a Northern Irish doctor and motorcycle enthusiast, renowned for his contributions to trauma medicine and his advocacy for improved emergency medical services. He was affectionately known as "The Flying Doctor" due to his work providing medical cover at motorcycle races.

Early Life and Education

John Hinds was born in Portadown, Northern Ireland. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in both medicine and motorcycles. He pursued his medical education at Queen's University Belfast, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. During his time at university, Hinds developed a passion for anaesthesiology and critical care medicine.

Career

Hinds began his medical career as an anaesthetist, working in various hospitals across Northern Ireland. His expertise in trauma care quickly became apparent, and he was known for his ability to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations. Hinds was particularly interested in pre-hospital emergency medicine, a field in which he would later become a leading figure.

Motorcycle Racing and Medical Cover

John Hinds with his motorbike

Hinds combined his love for motorcycles with his medical expertise by volunteering as a doctor at motorcycle races. He provided medical cover at events such as the North West 200 and the Isle of Man TT, where he was often seen riding his own motorcycle to reach injured riders quickly. His presence at these events earned him the nickname "The Flying Doctor."

Hinds was instrumental in developing protocols for rapid response and treatment of injuries sustained during motorcycle races. His work significantly improved the survival rates of injured riders and set new standards for medical care at motorsport events.

Advocacy and Legacy

John Hinds was a passionate advocate for the establishment of a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) in Northern Ireland. He believed that a dedicated air ambulance service was crucial for providing timely medical care in rural and remote areas. Hinds campaigned tirelessly for this cause, raising awareness and garnering public support.

Tragically, Hinds died in a motorcycle accident while providing medical cover at the Skerries 100 road races in County Dublin, Ireland, in July 2015. His death was a significant loss to the medical and motorsport communities.

Following his passing, the campaign for a HEMS in Northern Ireland gained momentum, and in 2017, the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance service was launched, fulfilling one of Hinds' dreams.

Related Pages

• Trauma medicine
• Anaesthesiology
• Helicopter emergency medical service
• North West 200
• Isle of Man TT