Chattanooga’s Life Force Air Medical Team Named 2024 Flight Program of the Year

Chattanooga Air Medical Team Takes the Crown!

Chattanooga, Tenn. — Gather ’round, folks! We have some exciting news that’s flying high above our beautiful city. Erlanger’s Life Force Air Medical has just been named the 2024 Flight Program of the Year by none other than the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). That’s right! This remarkable achievement shines a bright spotlight on our local air medical team and their vital role in saving lives.

A Journey of 35 Years

Can you believe it? Life Force at Erlanger has been serving the Chattanooga community for an impressive 35 years! It all started with just a single helicopter back in the day when the community recognized the pressing need for critical care transport. Fast forward to today, and Life Force has expanded to a fleet of six helicopters, ensuring that quality medical care is just a flight away for those in dire situations.

Meeting a Growing Demand

It’s no surprise that Health Services are often in high demand. As of 2023, the U.S. boasts around 370 air ambulance service businesses, and the demand continues to rise, especially in rural areas where access to trauma care can be a challenge. Life Force has noticed an increase in calls from towns outside of Chattanooga, emphasizing the importance of having a level 1 trauma center ready to handle emergencies.

Advanced Medical Services

What’s fascinating is that Life Force isn’t just about getting patients from point A to point B. Their team provides advanced medical treatments while en route to hospitals. That means if you’re in a critical situation, they’re equipped to perform procedures like chest tubes and surgical airways. They essentially bring the emergency room right to you, no matter where you are!

Timing Isn’t Just Everything – It’s the Only Thing

When it comes to medical emergencies, timing can make all the difference. Jim Coleman Jr., who used to serve as a Life Force Member back in 1988, emphasizes that each second counts. When 911 gets a call, the clock starts ticking, and that’s where Life Force jumps into action.

Caring for the Community

One of the standout features of Erlanger’s Life Force program is its unwavering commitment to the community. The team is constantly striving to provide top-notch care, particularly for those who find themselves cut off from quick access to life-saving services. This ideal aligns perfectly with the vision of advancing emergency medical services and ensuring that everyone, even in the farthest reaches of our region, receives the care they need.

So, What’s Next?

With this incredible recognition under their belts, the Life Force team isn’t slowing down. They are continuously working to improve their services and ensure that they’re always ready to meet the needs of the community. Want to learn more about their operations and the innovative pilot programs they offer? You can visit their website for all the latest updates and information.

A Heartfelt Congratulations!

As we celebrate this wonderful achievement, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work that the Life Force Air Medical team puts in every single day. They aren’t just flying helicopters; they are saving lives, one flight at a time! Hats off to our amazing air medical heroes in Chattanooga!