Heroes in Motion: An Inside Look at a Patient Transport Team

Every year, over 1,200 critically ill and injured pediatric patients rely on the expertise of the Valley Children's Critical Transport teams. These specialty-trained professionals are more than just medical staff - they’re lifelines, delivering intensive care from the moment they arrive, whether by air or ground, day or night. Take an inside look at the care they provide! 

How the Day Begins

Research consistently shows that specialized medical transport teams significantly increase survival rates compared to non-specialized crews. That’s why every detail matters. Each day begins with rigorous equipment checks, pilot briefings and emergency planning ensuring our teams are ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Take a look at one of our vehicles, Air George! 

Air George, the hospital’s emergency transport helicopter, is an EC-135 which has the latest technology and ample interior room. It also is one of the most recognizable helicopters in the sky! Air George features our beloved big-hearted mascot George flying through the sky as a superhero, and Valley Children's signature hearts throughout the helicopter's design. 

Specially configured for both neonatal and pediatric patients, Air George can be equipped with either an isolette or a pediatric sled, ensuring care can always be provided. 

What Our Teams Do 

From one-pound newborns to adult-sized adolescents, our teams are equipped to handle the most fragile and complex cases. Operating 24/7, they bring the ICU to the patient, initiating life-saving interventions during transport and dramatically improving outcomes. Valley Children's Transport Team is one of the busiest and best in California, and is made up of highly qualified critical care registered nurses and respiratory care practitioners. 

Behind every successful transport is a crew trained for high-acuity care, prepared for the unexpected and committed to delivering hope with every mission. To learn more about our Patient Transport team, click here.