Sanford say helicopters will improve patient care

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Officials from Sanford Health say a fleet of three new helicopters will increase patient care and safety.

KELO television reports that starting next month, patients will be taking off in a new EC145 helicopter.

One will be used in the Sioux Falls area, and the other two in the Fargo, N.D., area.

Sanford director of intensive air Mike Christianson says that instead of opening from the side, the new helicopter has a rear entrance. The stretcher also rolls out, rather than having to transfer patients to another bed.

Christianson says that makes it easier to load in and out, and more comfortable for the patients.

Pilots are already training.

The new helicopters also have autopilot, which officials say is like having a second pilot in the aircraft.

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