UMC Health System officially opened its new dual helipad on Tuesday, May 26, near its main central Lubbock hospital campus.
The new helipad is located at the corner of 8th Street and Texas Tech Parkway and is designed to improve the efficiency and safety of critical patient transport operations across the region, according to a news release.
At the time of the opening, UMC’s current single helipad will be permanently closed.
The addition of the dual helipad will strengthen UMC’s ability to serve patients throughout West Texas and eastern New Mexico, where rapid air transport is often critical to patient outcomes. UMC currently handles approximately 6,000 patient transfers annually from across the region.
To further streamline the transfer process, UMC has also purchased a mini ambulance that will be used to transport patients directly from the helipad to the Emergency Center.
Flight crews are asked to radio the Emergency Center while approaching the helipad so staff can meet them upon arrival. UMC Security officers will operate the mini ambulance to assist with patient transport between the helipad and the hospital.
“This new helipad and transport process represent another important investment in regional emergency care,” said Tammy Williams, Chief Nursing Officer. “By improving access and efficiency, we are better equipped to provide timely, lifesaving care for patients who need specialized treatment at UMC.”
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: UMC Health System opens new dual helipad to enhance regional patient transfers
Reporting by Special for the Avalanche-Journal / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
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