Flight for Life, a pioneer in helicopter medical transport, expanded its life-saving operations by establishing new bases at CommonSpirit - St. Catherine Hospital in Dodge City and Garden City, and Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses, Kansas. This strategic move brings critical care closer to residents of southwestern Kansas, ensuring faster access to advanced medical services. “Residents of southwestern Kansas now have faster access to the best possible care, close to home,” said Jason Justice, President of the three Kansas hospitals.“With Flight for Life’s expansion, we have created a vital regional health care hub, offering comprehensive services including 24-hour emergency care, surgical services, maternity care, and intensive care. The integration of Flight for Life significantly enhances our capacity to serve complex cases by providing rapid transport to specialized facilities or delivering crucial resources directly to patients.” Flight for Life operates as a nonprofit, prioritizing patient care above all else. Jon Massey, Regional Director of Flight for Life Services, stated,“We never ask a patient about their financial status before providing their medical transport. We do what is right for every patient, every time.” Available 24/7, Flight for Life strategically transports patients to the most appropriate medical facility, whether a local hospital or a distant specialized center in Wichita or Kansas City. For journeys within 150 miles of Dodge City, an Airbus A-Star helicopter is used. Longer distances utilize a fixed-wing plane. Both aircraft are staffed by experienced pilots, nurses with at least five years of critical care experience, and highly skilled paramedics. Flight for Life crews are extensively trained to provide intensive care for a wide range of conditions, including trauma, cardiac issues, stroke, burns, and high-risk pregnancies, within the aircraft’s confined space.This service is particularly beneficial for rural communities with limited emergency transport options. Flight for Life is contracted with major insurers in southwestern Kansas, billing only what is required to avoid financial burdens. Flight for Life anticipates assisting approximately 250 people in rural Kansas within its first year. When not on calls, teams will support and improve hospital care at CommonSpirit St. Catherine hospitals. This expansion also creates up to 18 new jobs and brings dedicated professionals who will contribute to the local community, offering training to local search and rescue groups and EMS.
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