 In March 2006, UT LIFESTAR opened a new base of operations in Sweetwater, Tenn.
“The Monroe County area accounts for the second highest number of LIFESTAR transports,” said Jeffrey Gregory, director of aeromedical services for LIFESTAR. “Because of our new base of operations, we can turn an hour-long ambulance drive to UT Medical Center into a 12-minute helicopter ride. That is crucial for patients in the Monroe County area who need our services.”
Monroe County had 225 responses in 2004, making it second to Sevier County's 375. Monroe County is the sixth largest geographic land area in Tennessee, and response time is essential in getting critical patients to a major medical center such as UT Medical Center.
The $5 million Bell 430 helicopter, its crew and the base of operations are located at Sweetwater Fire and Rescue Station No. 2. Officials from the city of Sweetwater and Monroe County worked with LIFESTAR throughout the process to ensure the arrival of the base. 
“We can’t thank the leaders and residents of Sweetwater and Monroe County enough for their help,” Gregory said. “This is a great partnership aimed at increasing the chance of survival for patients in Sweetwater, Monroe County and the surrounding area.”
The City of Sweetwater Parks and Recreation Department poured a fenced-in concrete landing pad and converted the upstairs of the fire hall into living quarters. The 24-hour-a-day base of operations includes living quarters and work space for a crew of three, including a pilot, flight paramedic and flight nurse.
“The addition of the LIFESTAR folks to our community changes our community,” said Sweetwater Mayor Jim Stutts. “It makes life better. It is a measurable improvement to the healthcare services available in our community.”
“It gives a 24-hour presence that this county never had,” said Monroe County Mayor Allen Watson. “This is going to save lives here in Monroe County.”
The base of operations has a fuel farm on site, and the fire station is equipped to bring the helicopter inside during severe weather. |
