Press Release
Air Medical Resource Group (AMRG), who previously managed Price’s Guardian Flight Helicopter, recently decided to close their Price Base.
“This was a difficult decision for us due to the strong relationships we have created in our community,” said Shanon Pollock, AMRG/Guardian. “However, due to the decreasing amount of transfers over the last two years, and other air transport providers in neighboring communities, it simply did not make sense to continue this service.”
Part of the reason for the decline in air transfers has been the addition of much-needed services at Castleview Hospital, specifically the new hospitalist program, which launched in October 2015 and offers in-patients access to a specially-trained hospital provider, and the addition of neurology and cardiology care. These services have significantly enhanced the level of care available to individuals needing care in and around Price and is offering patients access to the care they need close to home.
If a patient needs to be transferred, options are still available for a timely transport. Guardian Flight’s sister program, MountainStar AirCare, has a base located in Payson, Utah – only a few minutes away by air. Additionally, the Carbon County Ambulance is always ready and willing to transport community members in their time of need.
“We are sad to see our base close, but we are glad to know that our community members are able to receive high-quality patient care here in Price.” said Mark Holyoak, CEO at Castleview Hospital.
Individuals with the Guardian Flight Plus Program Membership will still be covered for all air medical transports completed by MountainStar AirCare or any other AMRG managed aircraft. This membership covers patients with 59 current bases of operation in 16 states including Alaska and Hawaii.