While I was on SAR not too long ago it was either a basket or a double strop with the winchman securing the victim. Stretchers for the people that were immobile, off course.
But neither method of lifting depended on the person's actions. You cannot expect someone who needs to be airlifted out of a predicament to be able to cope 100% of the time with following instructions.
I understand having to perform SAR on a budget, but then there are cases you simply cannot attend or perform. Tough calls to make but they need to be made.