Several years ago, the Chris Burger/Petro Jackson Players’ Fund and SA Rugby identified the need for an organized rapid response system to assist seriously injured rugby players anywhere in the country. It was against this backdrop that the Fund entered into partnership with NETCARE 911 to establish the rugby Spine Line.

Operating 24-hours a day, the Spine Line has a national toll-free number – 0800–678–678 - which is linked to an emergency control room, manned by qualified NETCARE 911 medical personnel.

The aim of the Spine Line is to provide proper spinal stabilization and immediate transportation to an appropriate trauma centre. It is crucial that the injured player receive medical attention within the shortest possible time. Permanent damage to the spinal column can occur if there is a prolonged period before medical attention is rendered.

When the Spine Line is called in response to a suspected catastrophic/serious injury, the NETCARE 911 controller will gather information from people on the scene to determine the extent of the injury. They will then dispatch an emergency response vehicle with paramedics to stabilize and transport the patient to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

If the patient is not on medical aid, the costs for transportation will be covered by NETCARE 911.