Released on April 19, 2013
Saskatchewan Air Ambulance patients can now expect even better care and efficient service thanks to a new, larger hangar facility for the program unveiled today at the Saskatoon airport.
The move will improve workplace safety for Lifeguard staff and ensure quick emergency response times for those in need.
“The new hangar signifies an investment in the program and an investment in the health and well being of the people of Saskatchewan,” Central Services Minister Nancy Heppner said. “Putting our patients first and providing the very best health care to the people of this province is a government priority. A larger hangar that allows Lifeguard to better serve patients furthers that commitment.”
Usage of the Air Ambulance program has grown in Saskatchewan from 991 flights in 2001 to approximately 1,500 flights in 2012-13. Lifeguard aircraft transports critically-ill and injured patients to advanced medical care centres for treatment. Resources for the services have grown from 16 employees and two aircraft in 1998 to more than 70 employees and three aircraft.
“Our government's plan for growth seeks to provide a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan people,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Randy Weekes said. “The new hangar facility will help to meet the growing demand for emergency air medical transportation services, making quality health care more accessible for families no matter where in the province they live.”
Operating since 1946, the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance is the oldest non-military air ambulance service in North America. In 2011-12, more than 757,000 miles were flown to assist Saskatchewan residents in need of health care.
“Air Ambulance provides a crucial link for people in remote areas of the province who need to get to one of our hospitals,” Saskatoon Health Region President and CEO Maura Davies said. “It’s wonderful that the people who provide this valuable care now have a better facility to support their work. The demand for this service continues to grow, and we need to ensure that Air Ambulance can continue to meet the needs of Saskatchewan people.”
Together, Air Ambulance and STARS are contributing to the province’s emergency medical services: STARS, by providing rapid, short distance responses with the ability to land on scene, and Air Ambulance by transporting critically-ill and injured patients long distances in a pressurized cabin. These services work together and are deployed according to which service best fits the situation. Both are providing critical services to the people of this province.
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For more information, contact:
Megan Wolfinger
Central Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5069
Email: megan.wolfinger@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-4840
Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tyler.mcmurchy@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594