Baylor Scott & White officials unveiled their new emergency medical services helicopter Tuesday.
It’s part of Scott & White’s expanded aeromedical transport capabilities.
PHI Air Medical recently retired the BK-117 helicopter that served as Baylor Scott & White McLane Children's air transport for pediatric and neonatal services. The hospital said the new EC-135 helicopter can transport more people from adults, to pediatric and neo-natal patients. It will allow teams to travel farther, faster and safer using the helicopter’s enhanced navigational system.
Phillip Ward, base manager for PHI Air Medical 1-5 said "the helicopter will help serve patients who are in need of a high-level care, whether it be a medical or traumatic event, using the latest medical technology in aeromedical transport."
Not only will it provide quicker lifesaving services, it also allows emergency crews to assist patients who need blood immediately.
Terry valentine, vice president of the trauma program and EMS operations for Baylor Scott & White said "the expanded service capability will enhance their health system’s ability to provide advanced, high-quality rapid transport for all patient population throughout the Central Texas Division."
The helicopter is based at Scott & White Medical Center in Temple. The hospital is the only Level one trauma center between Dallas and Austin.
The new chopper can respond quickly to 911 emergency calls across Central Texas.