Senator Dale M. Volker Secures $150,000 For Mercy Flight Western New York

(Albany, NY) Senator Dale M. Volker (R-I-C, Depew) today announced that he has secured $150,000 for Mercy Flight Western New York within the adopted 2005-2006 New York State Budget. This funding will ensure that Mercy Flight Western New York will remain fully operational in providing life-saving medical EMS and helicopter transportation for those in need of immediate health emergencies throughout the western New York region.

"Mercy Flight Western New York has a proven track record in providing life-saving services in a cost-effective and efficient manner whose program must not be diminished nor curtailed," said Senator Dale M. Volker. "This invaluable asset to our region has saved thousands of lives. Working collaboratively with our fire and ambulance companies and area hospitals located throughout the western New York region, Mercy Flight Western New York is a key component to our overall public health network. I am pleased to have secured $150,000 for this organization."

Douglas H. Baker, President of Mercy Flight Western New York said, " Senator Volker has consistently secured state funding over the past several years to ensure that our operations remain accessible to our residents when a life-threatening situation occurs. We are sincerely grateful for his continued support. Our organization continues to save the lives of countless western New Yorkers who need quick, reliable and professional medical care when they need it the most."

Mercy Flight Western New York, serves all of Western New York, Northern Pennsylvania, and Southern Ontario, Canada. They cover most of Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania in less than 15 minutes. Weather permitting, the helicopter operations may extend as far as Syracuse, NY, Cleveland, OH, or Pittsburgh, PA. Transports to more distant areas are achieved by the use of airplanes.

Additionally, Mercy Flight Western New York staffs each of their helicopters with a pilot, nurse and paramedic 24 hours a day for scene and interfacility transports, with medical control support. Additionally, Mercy Flight Western New York participates with hospitals and emergency response agencies, to enhance patient care, by providing educational seminars and involvement in quality management activities concerning the appropriate and safe use of air medical services.

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