In an effort to improve response times, Hartford Hospital is moving the Life Star helicopter based in Hartford to MidState Medical Center in Meriden.
The hospital operates two helicopters, including one at stationed at Backus Hospital in Norwich.
The decision to move the Hartford helicopter was based on research into accident locations and population, and will take advantage of MidState’s more central location, starting Aug. 7.
“By moving where it’s stationed, we’re closer to accidents and closer to patients,” said Rebecca Stewart, spokeswoman for Hartford Hospital. “We can pick people up quicker and take them to treatment faster, usually at Hartford Hospital, where they can get the care they need.”
Hartford, MidState and Backus hospitals are part of the Hartford HealthCare system. The aircraft service carries critically injured patients to the closest appropriate care facility — including hospitals outside of the Hartford HealthCare network, such as Yale-New Haven.
Plans for a new hangar at MidState are underway, but completion isn’t expected until next summer. The helicopter will take off and land in a grassy area next to the hospital during construction.
Since its inception in 1985, Life Star has transported over 30,000 patients at a rate of about 1,200 a year. Its helicopters can reach speeds of 155 mph and can carry two patients at a time.
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