AirCare: Soaring to the Rescue in Augusta, GA
In Augusta, Georgia, the sky is filled with promise as the dedicated team from Wellstar MCG Health AirCare remains on standby, ready to swoop in and provide life-saving aid. With remarkable speed and efficiency, this elite crew is committed to being there for the community, no matter the time of day or night.
Taking Flight in Times of Crisis
“We try to be off the ground and in the air in under 10 minutes,” says Leanne Carson, a flight paramedic and nurse. Launched in June 2021, Wellstar MCG AirCare operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, responding to emergencies and transporting critically ill and injured patients swiftly.
Once they receive a call, the excitement kicks in. “We’re given some patient information, [like] where we’re going and where the patients are being transferred from,” Carson explains. The team even takes to the skies for scene calls, which could lead them anywhere from a highway to a pasture.
Reaching the Underserved
The chopper doesn’t just serve those in urban settings; it reaches out to underserved areas of Georgia, which is vital given the state’s many rural regions. “A lot of hospitals and EMS in these areas do their best to provide care, but they are often an hour or two from the nearest level one trauma center,” Carson adds. Within a 150-mile radius of Wellstar MCG, this team is always ready to support.
An All-Star Team in the Sky
Each helicopter is staffed with a skilled trio: a pilot, a flight paramedic, and a flight nurse. “We do patient care while making sure we’re safe outside of the aircraft,” shares Kim Whitfield, a flight nurse. The camaraderie among team members is palpable as they support each other while focusing on patient needs.
Working long hours, both 24-hour and 12-hour shifts, the AirCare teams might even catch a little shut-eye at the facility. But for them, this job is much more than just work—it’s a mission fueled by a passion for community safety and care. “The empathy and commitment of my colleagues are phenomenal,” Carson remarks.
Behind the Scenes: Maintenance and Training
On the ground, AirCare doesn’t just rest; they engage in rigorous training and maintenance. “Safety is our number one goal,” insists Chris Thornberry, the program’s lead mechanic. Each day starts with aircraft inspections to ensure that their lifeline to the community is ready and safe to operate.
During these checks, they review medical supplies like blood products. “We have to check temperatures, ensuring everything is in order for patient care,” Carson divulges. Alongside the operational checks, they also ensure they’re meeting their standards of care by reviewing previous shifts
High-Tech Helicopters for Complex Needs
The helicopter is also equipped with an impressive array of features. Ample space in the medical interior allows for enhanced access to patients, while large clamshell doors make patient transfers smoother. Plus, the presence of in-air WiFi helps transmit vital data quickly. Notably, the ability to carry whole blood in emergencies sets them apart. “Studies show that whole blood can significantly aid patients in severe blood loss situations,” Carson explains, highlighting a crucial aspect of their service.
Preparedness for Anything
Despite having only one helicopter, the team is ready for anything. Thanks to their partnership with Metro Aviation, a backup aircraft is available when maintenance is required. “We can transfer all our equipment to another helicopter and keep operations running smoothly,” Carson reassures.
The Unsung Heroes of Augusta
The unwavering commitment of the AirCare team makes them the true heroes of the skies. “What we do provides the best medical care quickly,” Thornberry emphasizes. “We’re there in a very short amount of time, which is so important for our community.”
In emergencies, it’s comforting to know that a dedicated team is poised for action, ready to take to the skies and provide essential care. So, in case of a 911 emergency, remember, you can always reach out to AirCare at 706-721-AIR1.
