Air Bear, the medical transport helicopter used by Akron Children's Hospital, has been in service for ten years, and in that time, has helped 3,556 children. Recently, Perkins Square Park was the site of an event commemorating this milestone.
Air Bear is able to cut the time to get to the hospital from an average of an hour down to 20 minutes. Each time the helicopter goes out, a respiratory therapist, paramedic, and a critical-care nurse are on board, along with the pilot. The Air Bear is outfitted with equipment designed specifically for children including four mobile ICU units. Videos, music, and art are also on board to help children remain calm.
The decision about whether to use an ambulance or send in Air Bear depends on the weather, the distance from the scene of the illness or accident to the hospital, and whether or not the medical situation calls for the speed the chopper provides. Air Bear often airlifts pediatric patients quickly from community or regional hospitals to the downtown campus of Akron Children's Hospital, where there are more sophisticated departments, such as suites for pediatric surgery, and neonatal ICUs.
One person celebrating the occasion was nine-year-old Jocelyn Traw, who was flown via Air Bear to Akron Children's Hospital when she was struck by a car.
Officials providing services like this can use flyer printing to advise residents that the option is available.
Location
3571 Brookwall Dr
Suite C
Akron, OH 44333
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Hours
Mon: 8:30 - 5:00
Tue: 8:30 - 5:00
Wed: 8:30 - 5:00
Thu: 8:30 - 5:00
Fri: 8:30 - 5:00
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed