Who has the authority to order a medical evacuation during a mission?

• A. The tactical commander or senior on ground
• B. The medic
• C. The flight crew
• D. The hospital administrator

Answer: (A)

The key point is who holds command authority in the field. The tactical commander or the senior person on the ground has the authority to order a medical evacuation. This ensures that evacuation decisions align with the mission’s priorities, risks, and available resources, and keeps the chain of command clear during fast-changing situations. The medic provides care and can initiate an evacuation request, but cannot unilaterally order it. The flight crew executes the evacuation once an order is given, and a hospital administrator is not involved in field decision-making.