LifeNet of New York, a subsidiary of US air medical service provider Air Methods, has made an investment of more than $31 million to update and expand the company's air medical services in the state of New York by upgrading aircraft and buying new clinical equipment.

This major investment is designed to improve LifeNet of New York's ability to partner with first responders and local hospitals to collaboratively improve patient outcomes. In total, eight of the 10 aircraft across the state have been upgraded, as well as given new IV pumps and ventilators, allowing all the aircraft to carry blood products on board.

These upgraded aircraft can also allow a family member to travel with the patient in some cases, and can also accommodate larger patients and more specialised equipment. Additionally, these changes allow the air medical teams to train more healthcare professionals via fly-along educational sessions.

The upgraded aircraft include six Airbus EC130s, two EC135s and an EC145. This is in addition to a pre-existing EC145 and Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.

“The people of New York deserve access to the best healthcare services available, and this is what they are getting,” says director of sales Aidan O'Connor. “This monumental investment gives us larger aircraft, which allow us to safely transport more patient populations and more lifesaving equipment. We also recognise that during these flights the ability to take a loved one alongside the patient will help the patient journey through the healthcare system and healing process.”

LifeNet of New York has served the residents and communities of New York state for more than 25 years and has helped more than 50,000 patients. Strategically placed, there are 10 New York bases including Albany, Johnstown, Wallkill, Harris, Hornell, Sidney, Potsdam, Watertown, Ticonderoga and Seneca Falls, serving most of the state. Each LifeNet of New York crew includes a critical care flight nurse, critical care flight paramedic and pilot, and is supported by 24/7 maintenance mechanics.

Importantly, all LifeNet of New York aircraft are stocked with blood and plasma in flight to be administered during pre-hospital air medical transport for patients at risk for haemorrhagic shock. This, combined with rapid air transport, can help critically ill or injured patients who otherwise might not survive. Patients suffering significant blood loss are at risk for haemorrhagic shock, which causes the body's organs to fail and can lead to death.

Air Methods is committed to providing air medical services to all members of the communities it serves. The average out-of-pocket patient cost per flight is less than $265, and Air Methods has secured in-network agreements with Blue Cross Blue Shield, United and more than 30 additional health insurance companies. In addition, its patient advocacy programme works with all patients, regardless of insurance, to ensure affordability.