Over the years, I have probably responded to about half a dozen such events (both Dom and Int) - probably about 1/2 with passengers having pretty significant problems
- never involved in a diversion, although on a FRA-ORD, I felt that the circumstances warranted an emergent landing in ORD as that would have been better for the pass than diverting somewhere else with potentially limited access to his needed.... and often wondered how that decision is made (I know of an interesting story about that which was shared with me....)

I have found that UA (vs some of the other airlines in which this issue has come up) is much better prepared - but I still sense there is a long way to go
.... and, to be blunt, as a professional taking a huge risk (not to mention the disruption in my flying experience), I have mixed feelings about the "thank you" response from UA

I know this can be a hot topic for healthcare providers who travel (and not just doctors) but also for passengers (a recent diversion to ORD that is making the rounds on the blogs prompted this thought) as well as the "patient/passenger"

hence, maybe we can discuss some thoughts and experiences?

-m