In 2000, MedStar Washington Hospital Center marked a significant advancement in its medical transport capabilities by acquiring an EC-135 helicopter. This single pilot instrument flight rules (SPIFR) certified aircraft was the first of its kind in the United States, enabling Medstar Transport to operate reliably even in challenging weather conditions. Utilizing advanced GPS technology, the EC-135 enhanced navigational precision for critical missions. That year, MedSTAR Transport solidified its role as the central hub for patient referrals, flight operations, and ambulance coordination for MedStar Washington Hospital Center, managing an impressive 1,700 patients.
The year 2001 witnessed the unwavering readiness of MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedSTAR Transport during the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Immediately following the Pentagon incident, the hospital initiated a Code Orange for mass casualty preparedness. MedSTAR Transport helicopters were promptly dispatched and were among the first medevac units to reach the scene, providing crucial support in the emergency response. Expanding its ground services, MedSTAR Transport also incorporated two ground ambulances into its fleet that year. Demonstrating its growing capacity, the service transported over 2,000 patients via air medical transport in 2001 alone.
Continuing its expansion, MedSTAR Transport further augmented its resources in 2002, adding another helicopter and three more ground ambulances. This expansion allowed the service to extend its reach and respond to an increasing demand for medical transportation, resulting in over 3,000 patients being transported by MedSTAR Transport during the year.
A major milestone was celebrated in 2003 as MedSTAR Transport commemorated 20 years of accident-free service to the community. This remarkable achievement underscored the service’s commitment to safety and reliability. By this time, MedSTAR Transport had completed nearly 40,000 flights since its inception in 1983, highlighting its extensive experience in air medical transport.
The year 2004 saw MedSTAR Transport successfully obtain a D.C. Commercial Ground Ambulance Certificate of Need, further legitimizing its ground transportation services. Simultaneously, the State of Maryland approved COMAR for licensing Commercial Air Ambulance providers, setting new standards for the industry.
In 2005, MedSTAR Transport achieved initial Maryland commercial air ambulance licensure and formalized a memorandum of understanding with the state to provide helicopter medevac services from accident scenes. Extending its service area, MedSTAR Transport also established an Air Ambulance agreement with the state of Delaware, broadening its regional impact.
October 2006 marked the opening of MedSTAR Transport’s advanced communications center in Lanham, Maryland. This state-of-the-art facility enhanced coordination and communication for all transport operations, ensuring seamless and efficient patient care logistics.
In 2008, MedSTAR Transport proudly celebrated 25 years of dedicated service. This silver anniversary recognized a quarter-century of commitment to providing critical medical transport and its vital role in the region’s healthcare ecosystem.
