Alberta’s larger heliport improves critical care access
Air ambulance helicopters, including STARS, can now land at the facility thanks to a flight certificate issued by Transport Canada.
In Canada, Alberta Health Services (AHS) has announced that a new, bigger heliport is now operational at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre. Air ambulance helicopters, including STARS, can now land at the facility thanks to a flight certificate issued by Transport Canada, said AHS. The new heliport can accommodate both helicopter models flown by STARS helicopters, the BK117 and the AW139.
Kerry Bales, chief zone officer of AHS Central Zone, commented: “We are pleased to announce the heliport is operational in time for the August long weekend. It has been a lengthy process, but we have very much appreciated the collaboration with the town and community.”
Part of the work involved dismantling a town-owned water tower near the flight path, as Transport Canada required it to be removed or painted before approval could be given to land at the heliport. AHS said it spent $430,000 to pay for the tower demolition and the relocation of the town, county and regional fire communication antennas that had been located on top of the tower.
“A super job well done,” said Rocky Mountain House Mayor Fred Nash. “It’s been a pleasure working with the professionalism of Alberta Health Services for the betterment of the town of Rocky Mountain House, the county and the many visitors who come here.”
Until now, all STARS helicopters were landing at the Rocky Mountain House airport, located about eight kilometres (five miles) from the health centre, noted AHS. Ground ambulances were used to transport patients to and from the health centre and airport. Bales said: “The ability to have all sizes of medevac helicopters land right here at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre will improve access for patients who need critical care transport.”
AHS said its 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.