Community Medical Center and Providence St. Patrick Hospital have entered into a contractual partnership that will integrate operations of the air ambulance services at the two Missoula hospitals, starting August 13th. Life Flight at St. Patrick Hospital and Care Flight at Community Medical Center have operated independently for several years and have covered emergency calls on a daily, rotational basis.

Steve Carlson, CEO of Community Medical Center and Jeff Fee, CEO of Providence Health and Services of Western Montana agree that having one air ambulance service supporting the Western Montana region will provide less duplication, increased efficiency and improved affordability for the community. Carlson says the employees of Air Method, the company that provides the helicopters for Community including pilots, mechanics and nurses will be let go and will be offered positions at other medical facilities. The collaboration will include helicopter, fixed wing and non-emergency ground transportation.

Community Medical Center CEO Steve Carlson

St. Patrick Hospital CEO Jeff Fee

 

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