Erlanger Hospital Services

LIFE FORCE

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Fast Facts

LIFE FORCE implemented the world’s first Non-Precision GPS Helicopter Approach into Erlanger Medical Center on July 1, 1994. As a result, the service has been able to come to the aid of an estimated 1,260 patients who might otherwise never have benefited from air medical transport because of adverse weather conditions.
LIFE FORCE is the first air medical program in the country to implement new safety technology called the Honeywell MK XXII Enhanced Ground Warning System (EGPWS). The EGPWS system, when coupled with the aircraft’s onboard duel IFR GPS Receivers, Traffic Advisory System, MAX-VIZ Enhanced Vision System, Weather Radar and Multi-Function Display, provides an advanced interactive system that integrates the four major airborne safety systems – to provide pilots with a seamless hazard avoidance system.
In March of 2008, LIFE FORCE 3 placed in service the latest in night vision technology by adding night vision goggles. The U.S. military has been the mainstay platform utilized in the development and refinement of viable night vision product for tactical applications. The civilian markets have recently recognized that NVG’s provide helicopter emergency medical services operators with increased situational awareness and enhanced safety throughout their programs.
17 IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) approaches have been implemented throughout LIFE FORCE’s service area. These approaches were fully funded by Erlanger and LIFE FORCE.
The Bell 412 aircrafts are equipped with a 30 million candlepower spotlight and the Bell 407 is equipped with a 15 million candlepower Star Burst SX-5 spotlight.
LIFE FORCE has trained over 30,000 emergency services personnel in helicopter safety. This number does not include any of the additional outreach educational programs sponsored or supported by LIFE FORCE.
Over 500 paramedics, nurses, physicians and medical students have participated in the Special Observer program. Many paramedic students use the program as part of their clinical rotation.
LIFE FORCE pilots spend an average of 65 hours in flight simulator training each year, with an additional 270 hours of ground school completed.
Trauma accounts for approximately 86% of all patient flights.
47% of LIFE FORCE missions are direct to the scene of an accident.