STARS marks first anniversary in Sask.

Tuesday, STARS air ambulance acknowledged its one-year anniversary of providing helicopter air ambulance services in Saskatchewan.

Since beginning operations from its Regina base in April 2012, STARS has flown or rendered care to more than 300 patients in Saskatchewan. STARS currently operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week from bases in Regina and Saskatoon.

Statistics released by STARS indicate 217 flights were made in 2012, with North Battleford being one of the busiest destinations with five trips made here. Other Northwest communities were also aided by the service: Wilkie - 1; Unity - 2; Turtleford - 2; Spiritwood - 1; Red Pheasant - 1; and Radisson - 1.

STARS vice-president of Saskatchewan Operations, Ron Dufresne, said it's been an honour to become such an integral part of the province's chain of survival.

"Every day we try to make a difference in the lives of the critically ill and injured patients we carry," said Dufrense. "We are grateful for the strong support shown by government, individual and corporate donors that make this possible."

STARS is a non-profit helicopter air ambulance organization that provides rapid and specialized emergency care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients. STARS doctors, nurses, paramedics, and pilots work with a team of dedicated support staff and community partners to save lives, according to a press release.

STARS operates from bases in Regina, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Winnipeg.