EagleMed critical care air medical service is flying an air medical helicopter outfitted in Wichita State University’s black and gold WuShock livery over the skies of south central Kansas. The special design celebrates successes of the WSU Shocker athletics program.
Based at EagleMed headquarters in Wichita, the Textron Bell 407 is equipped with an air medical services interior, designed for critical care transport. It has complete medical systems including oxygen, suction, air, storage, electrical power, and approved provisions for securing medical support equipment during all aspects of flight.
“This is a great opportunity for EagleMed to show our Shocker spirit and to give back to the community we call home,” said EagleMed President Larry Bugg. “We appreciate Wichita State University permitting EagleMed to proudly display the WuShock symbol as we conduct lifesaving helicopter transports for our friends and neighbors in need.”
The Shocker Copter was officially dedicated in ceremonies today at EagleMed’s main headquarters and hangar at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport. WuShock represented Wichita State University’s involvement in the program.
The Bell 407’s all-composite, four-bladed rotor system provides excellent hover performance and speed for a smooth ride. Features include quick and easy patient loading and unloading provided by a standard bi-fold door with a 61-inch opening and a spacious cabin.
EagleMed highly-trained pilots undergo extensive aviation and rigorous safety training to include simulation. EagleMed’s expert medical crews consist of a registered nurse and a paramedic with advanced clinical certifications.
Safety Focus
FAA SMS – The Federal Aviation Administration Safety Management System (SMS) Program Office (SMSPO) recently acknowledged the full implementation of the EagleMed SMS and validated the Company as “SMS Voluntary Program (SMSVP) Active Conformance.” This designation is the highest level attainable in the SMSVP and EagleMed is the only Part 135 charter certificate holder in the FAA Central Region to achieve this significant distinction.
ARGUS Platinum – EagleMed recently achieved the ARGUS International Platinum Rating. ARGUS International is the most comprehensive, accurate, and detailed third-party safety analysis and due diligence system for charter operators in the world. ARGUS utilizes an independent, unbiased, and proprietary rating algorithm “CHEQ System” to evaluate the charter operator’s legitimacy as a charter operator; factual safety history; liability insurance confirmation; current aircraft and pilot background checks; pilot training, experience, certifications, and type ratings. EagleMed is one of only two air medical operators in the nation to achieve the coveted Platinum Rating.
CAMTS – EagleMed is a Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Services (CAMTS) critical care air medical transport service. CAMTS accreditation represents the “Gold Standard” for air medical operators and validates the organization’s focus on patient care and safety across the entire spectrum of air medical transport services.
EagleMed’s senior aviation, maintenance, and safety leadership has a combined total of more than 150 years of aviation operational experience. Recognized as a leader in the industry, the organization and its employees received the 2013 Chairman’s Award and the 2010 President’s Award for Leadership and Safety from the Association of Air Medical Services. EagleMed also received the 2011 Safety Award from the Helicopter Association International, Best Practice in Just Culture from CAMTS, and the 2012 Pilot of the Year Award from the National EMS Pilots Association.
EagleMed leverages technology through its web-based Learning Management System and IS-BAO registered Baldwin SMSlite™ system to deliver regulatory, aircraft-specific, air medical resource management, SMS, risk management, just culture, threat and error management, OSHA safety compliance training and safety report data tracking and analysis. EagleMed maintains a technologically advanced Communications Center with satellite tracking and communications for 24/7 oversight and medical direction and dispatch provided by a cadre of emergency physicians and highly trained communication staff that are certified emergency medical technicians.
EagleMed’s experienced and proficient team of commercial instrument rated rotor and Airline Transport Pilot rated fixed wing pilots undergo extensive hands-on training every six months including FlightSafety International simulation training.
