New heliport opens, improving access to critical care

STARS air ambulance helicopters can now land at Didsbury Hospital

DIDSBURY – The new heliport at the Didsbury Hospital is now operational after Transport Canada today issued a flight certificate confirming STARS air ambulance helicopters can land at the Alberta Health Services (AHS) facility.

“The ability to have all sizes of medevac helicopters land right here at the Didsbury Hospital will improve access for patients who need critical care transport,” says Scott Holland, Executive Director, Rural Health, AHS. “This achievement would not have been made possible without the generous support from the community.”

The Rosebud Health Foundation raised the funds required to construct the new heliport.

“We are committed to providing state-of-the-art health services for rural Alberta, in partnership with Alberta Health Services,” says Foundation Co-Chair Brad Blatz. “We appreciate all the financial support and encouragement we receive as we work toward enhanced health services to promote well-being in our community.”

A grand opening community celebration is scheduled for June 17.

STARS helicopters are more than an ambulance in the air; they are sophisticated medical environments brought directly to the patient. This can mean the difference in the health outcome of a patient when time is of the essence.

“Many lives have been saved because of our ability to provide transport and medical expertise to critically ill and injured patients via air ambulance,” says Mike Lamacchia, Vice President of Alberta and Saskatchewan Operations at STARS.

AHS’ Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team, including dispatch services, ground ambulances and fixed-wing air ambulances, work with STARS as a key partner to provide an integrated emergency medical response service. STARS physicians, nurses, paramedics and pilots work with a team of dedicated support staff and community partners to be there for Albertans and to save lives 24/7.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

- 30 -