Augusta University Health to launch AU Health AirCare in partnership with Metro Aviation

Augusta University Health will launch a new air medical program this year in partnership with Metro Aviation.

The program, AU Health AirCare, will provide rapid transport via its dedicated, highly skilled clinical crews, who will be available for scene response and interfacility transport to the region’s only Level 1 Trauma Center. The hospital-based program will be staffed by AU Health clinicians and Metro Aviation pilots and technicians.

“We’re honored to partner with Metro Aviation for the area’s only hospital-based air transport program. A dedicated helicopter and highly specialized transport teams will expand our reach across the state of Georgia and ensure more of our state’s residents have access to lifesaving specialty care and rapid transport,” said Katrina Keefer, AU Health CEO.

”We are thrilled to be partnering with Augusta University Health,” said Metro’s part-owner and Director of Business Integration, Todd Stanberry. “From my first conversation with AU Health, I knew our cultures were very much aligned. Ms. Keefer, Dr. Coule, Mr. Kayea, and the entire team at AU Health have worked hard to vet the best people and equipment for this vital service to their community. We are humbled and honored to be a small part of this great new season for AU Health.”

“The EC145 C2e is the aircraft of choice for patient care. Its range, speed and superior patient access all allow for a high level of care in flight,” said Dr. Phillip Coule, Chief Medical Officer for AU Health.

In addition, AU Health AirCare will improve access to the Children’s Hospital of Georgia for children and infants statewide.

“Our Children’s Hospital of Georgia transport teams have always provided a high level of expert care, but this helicopter will allow us to arrive and transport the patient more quickly. This can make a huge difference in outcomes,” said Laura Brower, Chief Nursing Officer for AU Health.