Safely Leading the Way

In addition to our financial commitment, the organization strives to exceed industry standards with the implementation of policies, processes, and programs designed to foster a Just Culture and drive operational excellence.

In a diverse and dynamic environment where lives are at stake and error tolerance is low, it is imperative that all teammates can communicate systemic or emerging issues. The Safety Management System (SMS) offers multiple reporting systems and voluntary programs that allow immediate dissemination of mission-critical information so that our crews can share safety concerns without fear of retribution.

Reporting Resources

Through a partnership with the FAA and implementation of internal Voluntary Safety Programs, the organization promotes transparency and accountability across our team.

  • Air Methods has had an accepted Safety Management System (SMS) recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in accordance with the requirements set forth in the SMS Voluntary Program since 2021. This postures Air Methods ahead of the federal mandate for part 135 operators to develop an SMS by 2027
  • Air Methods has been an active participant in the FAA’s Aviation and Maintenance Safety Action Programs (ASAP/MSAP) to encourage voluntary disclosure and foster continuous improvement across the industry.
  • Our organization has also recognized the need to build a similar program to address clinical concerns and established a Patient Safety Action Program (PSAP) modeled after the FAA’s reporting system.

Fostering a Just Culture

In addition to participating in Voluntary Safety Programs, we provide multiple reporting mechanisms to all teammates to empower individuals and ensure accountability across the organization.

  • Our SMS requires hazard and self-deficiency reporting without fear of retribution or unjustified discipline through deliberate due process in a Just Culture environment.
  • Reporting is a cornerstone of the Safety Risk Management (SRM) process at Air Methods. Our SMS Operating System provides a convenient means to identify hazards and implement corrective or preventative actions.

Clinical Safety

We participate in 75 to 100 monthly case reviews:

  • Every patient flight is reviewed to ensure the highest standards of air medical patient safety and to ensure that our clinicians have the tools, training, and technology to provide high-quality clinical care.
  • Near-misses and patient safety events are regularly reviewed with a multidisciplinary team using a process grounded in Just Culture and dedicated to continuous improvement.