Erlanger adding new helicopter for Murphy, North Carolina region

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Erlanger Health System wants to add a sixth LIFE FORCE helicopter to serve the mountain communities of western North Carolina.

The medical helicopter will be based at the Western Carolina Regional Airport in Andrews, near Murphy.

Erlanger has also signed a letter of intent with Murphy Medical Center.

“We are extremely pleased that LIFE FORCE is now expanding ‘critical care in the air’ services even further into the western North Carolina region,” said Kevin M. Spiegel, FACHE, President & CEO of the Erlanger Health System.

“Placement of this air ambulance in North Carolina is the result of working closely with surrounding hospitals, state and elected officials for several years. Their overwhelming support has enabled thousands of residents to have quicker access to the region’s trauma center when they need it most.”

The flights should begin on August 15h.

The new hospital agreement should take 90 days to hammer out.

“Erlanger Health System and Murphy Medical Center have signed an exclusive Letter of Intent to explore how our organizations can partner more closely to enhance and grow medical services already offered by Murphy Medical Center,” said Robert M. Brooks, Erlanger Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer. “This Letter of Intent is the first step in the process of exploring what the best structure could be for both Murphy Medical Center and Erlanger Health System.”