Helicopter Medical Transport: Masko, the Protective Bear Serving the Opitciwan Community
Opitciwan, September 14, 2022 — The Opitciwan community and Airmedic inaugurate the Masko helisite. Thus, this strategic site will improve efficiency in helicopter medical transport for community members. Several helicopter interventions occurred in 2022. Indeed, demand increases every year. The helisite therefore allows safe operations during day and night.
A Strong Cultural Symbol and a Lasting Partnership
Airmedic’s work reflects reconciliation, mutual respect, and long-term collaboration with the Opitciwan community.
The site, named Masko to honor the bear, was blessed during a traditional ceremony last year. Moreover, the inauguration highlights the importance of kindness, strength, and protection represented by the bear in Atikamekw values.
Jean-Claude Mequish, Chief of Opitciwan, mentions the importance of considering community values. He emphasizes respect for the past, the present, and the future. He says it is essential that the helisite reflects the culture. The bear emblem must hold its full meaning.
Cultural and language barriers still affect access to prehospital services for First Nations members. Therefore, consolidating partnerships is essential. These collaborations help provide helicopter medical transport adapted to Indigenous realities.
“We have built strong ties with Indigenous communities for over 10 years. Furthermore, our relationships strengthened after creating our cultural safety committee. With the inauguration of the Opitciwan helisite, we aim to improve services. We also want to continue collaborating with the band council. We want to ensure a service that respects Atikamekw cultural values,” says Sophie Larochelle, Airmedic Chief Executive Officer.
Regina Chachai, Director of the Opitciwan Health Centre, adds: “A cultural safety protocol is currently being developed. It is created by the community, health teams, and Airmedic. The goal is to better support Opitciwan members at every stage of their care journey within Quebec’s hospital network.”
A Major Project Supported by Regional Authorities
The recent CAQ announcement about a national helicopter medical transport project supports this local initiative. Indeed, several discussions occurred between partners, CIUSSS Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean authorities, and the government. The goal is clear: prioritize the construction of a heliport at Roberval Hospital. Thus, Opitciwan and regional residents will receive better service.
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About Opitciwan
In 1918, flooding caused by the La Loutre dam forced the Atikamekw of Kikendache to relocate. They settled on the current site. In 1944, this territory on the north shore of the Gouin Reservoir officially became the Opitciwan community. Accessible by forest roads, Opitciwan is located 280 km west of Roberval and has more than 2,400 residents.
(Source : https://www.atikamekwsipi.com)
About Airmedic
Airmedic is an innovative private Quebec company. It offers medical assistance and ground and air medical transport across Quebec. It is also the only company in Quebec operating its own fleet of planes and helicopters. These aircraft are dedicated to emergency medical evacuations and inter-facility transfers.
Since 2016, Airmedic has held Accreditation Canada certification. It is also accredited by Transport Canada for IFR flight and night-vision goggle operations. These certifications demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality care in a safe environment, 24/7.
Learn more about Airmedic protection
Contact :
Opitciwan : Opitciwan Band Council
819 974-8837
Airmedic :
Raphaële Bourgault
Business Development and Strategic Communications Manager
[email protected]
514-709-9633
