Chattanooga’s Life Force Flight Program Celebrates 35 Years of Lifesaving Service and National Recognition

Chattanooga Celebrates Lifesaving Milestone with Life Force

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Erlanger Health System recently threw a heartwarming celebration in honor of their impressive Life Force Flight Program, marking both the recipient of the 2024 Life Force Flight Program of the Year Award and an incredible 35 years of service. It was quite a day for the team and the community alike!

A Stellar Recognition

Robbie Tester, the Vice President of Patient Logistics at Erlanger, radiated excitement as he spoke about the national recognition. “To be recognized from across the country, among some truly outstanding medical programs, to see Life Force and Erlanger at the top of that list is very exciting,” he shared during the ceremony.

Flying High Since 1988

For those who may not know, Life Force has been a vital air ambulance service for the greater Chattanooga area since it took flight back in 1988. Over the years, they have become an essential part of the community, transporting patients from four different states to Erlanger Hospital. When emergencies arise, prompt medical care can make all the difference in the world, and that’s where this service comes to the rescue.

The Real MVP: Life Force’s Aircraft

Jim Coleman, the CEO of Erlanger, couldn’t help but beam with pride about this accomplishment. “To be compared to 370 air medical programs across the United States and to be named the best is a pretty big deal. We wanted to showcase this honor by hosting a grand celebration,” Coleman expressed.

What’s even more remarkable is how the Life Force fleet has expanded over time. Starting with just one helicopter, the service now boasts a total of six aircraft! “We’ll complete a little over 3,000 flights every year, though we receive around 5,000 service requests. Not every request leads to a flight, but it sure highlights how busy we are,” Tester explained.

Life-Saving Stats

Interestingly, about 80% of their flights involve adult patients, while the remaining 20% assist children. The mix is typically a balanced 50/50 between medical emergencies and trauma incidents. The need for this service speaks volumes about the good they do in our community.

Looking to the Future

As the celebration rolled on, Coleman reflected on the significance of this life-saving service. “Watching the growth of Life Force just illustrates the growth of this community. Having quick access to high-quality medical services is special and has a profound impact on the quality of life and health for our entire region,” he remarked.

Community Spirit Shines

What truly stood out during the celebration was the sense of community and gratitude in the air. People from all walks of life came together to honor the heroes behind Life Force, showing appreciation for their dedication and compassion. It’s not just about flying patients; it’s about the entire community relying on their swift response in times of need.

Join the Conversation

As we look ahead, the Life Force team is eager to continue their journey, providing essential care to those in need. Erlanger invites everyone to connect with them. Whether you want to share your story, learn more about their services, or simply express gratitude, they want to hear from you! If you’re ever in need of news or updates, don’t forget to download those handy apps to stay in the loop.

In conclusion, here’s to 35 years of invaluable service, many more flights ahead, and a bright future for the life-saving mission that is Life Force! Cheers to those who dedicate their lives to keeping our community healthy and safe!