posted July 29, 2024

 Air Medical Teams Approved for First On Scene, Supplementing Ground EMS Partners

FLAGSTAFF, AZ, July 29, 2024 – Air Methods’ Native Air bases in Cottonwood and Williams have achieved first responder designation, permitting first-response capabilities in the areas of Coconino County and Northern Arizona to assist in delivering rapid, emergency care. Additionally, the Native Air base in Payson is expected to achieve first responder status by early September.

“First responder status makes a positive impact on patient outcomes here in rural Northern Arizona,” said Williams Fire Chief Chase Pearson. “Because of travel times, the aircrew can often be on scene prior to any of the volunteer fire departments.”

The Native Air team responds when dispatched through a 911 call or a local partner first responder agency request. Through a controlled landing zone parameter, set by ground emergency partners, the air medical team will land as close to the patient/on-scene as safely permissible. Now, with a first responder designation, Native Air can be dispatched first to provide initial scene control, permitting the pilot and crew to designate a permissible landing zone. This allows patient care prior to the arrival of ground resources, providing supplemental rapid access for residents or visitors who need emergent care.

“To safely conduct scene operations at unimproved landing zones without ground agencies present, our pilots receive additional, annual training on hazard identification and risk mitigation, as well as company and regulatory requirements,” said Air Methods Director of Aviation Operations Ian Matthews.

On every transport mission, the clinical team carries whole blood and will administer it in flight, if necessary, positively increasing patient outcomes through pre-hospital care. Native Air is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) – the highest standards in safety, clinical practice, quality assurance, and training in the industry.

“Seconds make all the difference in saving a life,” said Flight Paramedic Amanda Peck. “We’re excited to have this important and needed capability to better serve our community.”

Air Methods is committed to providing air medical services to all members of the communities they serve and is in-network with most major health insurance providers for emergency air medical services. Additionally, their patient advocacy program works with all patients, regardless of insurance, to ensure affordability.

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About Air Methods

Native Air is part of Air Methods, the nation’s leading air medical service delivering lifesaving care to more than 100,000 people every year. With nearly 45 years of experience, Air Methods is the preferred partner for hospitals and one of the largest community-based providers of air medical services. Air Methods Ascend is the company’s clinical education program, allowing critical care nurses and paramedics best-in-class training opportunities using high-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality, and cadaver labs.

For interviews, contact:                                                                                                                 

Denisse Coffman
Vice President of Corporate Communications
Air Methods Corporation

720-666-8499