— by Lin McNulty —

Between March 18 and March 31, 2016, Island Air and San Juan EMS will be terminating their contract for fixed-wing medevac services in a recent business decision whereby Island Air will be taking over full responsibilities for all aspects of the service.

In the past, Island Air was under contract with San Juan EMS to provide pilots and fixed wing aircraft, while San Juan EMS provided the medical staffing aboard the aircraft. Island Air is now hiring their own EMS flight personnel to continue the service in what they plan to be a seamless changeover with no interruption in service. An increase in availability is expected with aircraft and crew being provided solely by Island Air.

“A new membership program should be in place by April,” explained Jackie Hamilton, owner of Island Air for 25 years. “We’re still working out details.” No more memberships or renewals will be taken at this time.

Island Air has no contract agreements with other fire districts in the county, and welcomes any questions at 360-378-2857.

The decision on whether to utilize Island Air or the helicopter-equipped AirLift Northwest in a medical emergency is based on such things as availability, weather, and patient status. Ultimately, that transport decision is made by on-scene by EMS personnel in order to provide the most appropriate medevac services for any particular patient.

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