Heliport at Westlock Healthcare Centre reopens

WESTLOCK — The heliport at Westlock Healthcare Centre has reopened and is fully operational.

The heliport was temporarily closed to allow for upgrades to improve safety and efficiency. It reopened May 8.

The heliport will now be able to accommodate more helicopter landings during winter months, following a significant upgrade to the mechanical snowmelt heating system. Upgrades to mechanical components below ground also resulted in minor landscaping around the heliport.

During construction, STARS helicopters landed at the nearby Westlock airport, which is approximately 10 minutes away from the Westlock Healthcare Centre.

Ground ambulances were used to transport patients to and from the health centre and airport. This is common practice in other communities across the province, and is a safe option.

Having the heliport beside the healthcare centre ensures patients have improved access to critical care transport. Work on the heliport did not impact any staff or public parking or access to entrances.

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.

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