Abstract
Emergency response best practice in Germany is described. Assistance within 12 minutes of notification is required by law. After initial assessment and diagnosis, the rescue co-ordination centre determines the most appropriate hospital for the patient. The air rescue programme and the training requirements of personnel are described. A quality assurance system is in place. Prevention of bleeding is considered important for saving life. Mortality of patients during transfer to hospital are rare after stabilisation of the patient. The hospital team responsible for major trauma patients comprises ten staff including 3 surgeons and 2 anaesthetists.