This year (2023) marks the five-year anniversary of the steadfast partnership between Christus Flight For Life (FFL) and PHI Air Medical.

Together, PHI and FFL have achieved numerous impressive milestones, including completing more than 8,000 patient transports to date, significantly impacting healthcare accessibility in East Texas.

This partnership has blossomed over the years, expanding the horizons of patient care in the region.

Achievements at a glance:

• 8,772 successful patient transports and counting
• Expansion of instrument flight rules (IFR) program for safe critical patient transfers in challenging weather conditions
• Development of a cutting-edge dual rooftop helipad in collaboration with Christus Trinity Mother Frances, enhancing air medical patient delivery efficiency
• Introduction of whole blood availability on all Christus Flight For Life aircraft for critically ill and injured patients
• Broadened monitoring capabilities, now including the Impella heart pump for cardiac patients and high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) for respiratory intervention
• Introduction of nitric oxide (iNO) capability for patients with COVID-19, ARDS, and severe respiratory ailments
• Attainment of full accreditations by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS), signifying adherence to industry standards of quality and safety

Not only has this extraordinary collaboration brought advanced medical capabilities to East Texas, but it has also ensured that patients receive the highest level of care during critical moments.

The partnership’s commitment to excellence has been underlined by achieving full accreditations from CAMTS, signifying a dedication to going above and beyond industry standards for both quality and safety.

As Christus Health continues its mission to serve rural areas with essential emergency departments, Christus Flight for Life, with the unwavering support of PHI Air Medical, remains dedicated to meeting East Texas’ urgent medical transport needs.

Shawn Salter, chief administrative officer of Christus Flight For Life, stated: “As we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the past five years, we remain committed to sustaining and further enhancing our operations. This partnership’s strength assures us that we are poised for future growth and expansion, ready to serve our communities with the highest standards of care.”