Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society
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[edit] History
The Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society (STARS) was formed in Calgary, Alberta, as a means of funding the purchase of the city's first medical evacuation helicopter (Air Ambulance). The Calgary base has been in operation since 1985 at the Calgary International Airport (CYYC). A base was opened in Edmonton some years later in 1991 located at the Edmonton City Centre Airport (CYXD). Most recently in late 2006, STARS opened a base in Grande Prairie with the help of major contributions from industry.
The STARS helicopter fleet primarily covers an area within 250 km of Calgary, Edmonton, and Grande Prairie which contains the greater population of Alberta. The operating range can be extended further than the 250 km radius if the provision is made to refuel.
While STARS currently owns 5 Eurocopter BK 117 helicopters, one at each base is constantly prepared to respond to medical emergencies and largely decrease transport times for ill or injured people to get to an appropriate medical facility. Both Calgary and Edmonton have a reserve aircraft that can be cycled for maintenance.
STARS is an air ambulance provider in the province much like the 10 fixed-wing providers, all of which need a physician's medical approval to transport a patient. First responder teams like EMS, RCMP, police, fire departments and park wardens remain a strong link in a patient's survival by initially recommending the best method of transport.
By late 2008, STARS expects to have one of two Agusta Westland AW139 helicopters in operation, with the second in use by late 2009.
[edit] Funding
STARS is a non-profit charitable organization. Funding needs are met through private donations received from individuals, service groups, businesses and corporations, and through collaborative affiliation agreements with Capital Health and Calgary Health Region.
STARS also holds a lottery every year to generate approximately 50% of the mission operating costs. Financial statements and the annual report are available at their website here.
[edit] External links
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