Story ID: 
Air Methods Shutters Four Bases in Oklahoma
By: Mark Huber
Caption: Air Methods cited an unfavaroble payer mix as its reason for closing four Oklahoma bases. 
Word Count: 173
Air ambulance provider Air Methods abruptly closed four bases in Oklahoma in April. The company said it closed the bases in Chickasha, Keefeton, Seminole, and South Tulsa due to financial considerations.

These closures will affect up to 60 employees and the company said it is working to find them other opportunities within Air Methods. Each base operated 24/7 and had a budget of close to $3 million. Air Methods said it will continue to provide neonatal air transport in the area via its AirKids1 program in Oklahoma City.

The company operates from 300 bases in 48 states. Air Methods cited the high number of Medicare/Medicaid transports, which traditionally pay reimbursements below costs, and the large population of medically uninsured in Oklahoma, as factors in its decision to close the four bases there. However, air ambulance market financials vary from state to state, and in recent months Air Methods has opened new bases in other locations, including California and South Dakota.
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