E28: Flying My Helicopter to Surgery

For Dr. Randy Lehman, “rushing to surgery” sometimes means taking to the skies.

In this episode, he shares how aviation became an unexpected solution to some of rural healthcare’s biggest hurdles: time, distance, and access.

From unforgettable landings to the real-world logistics of owning and flying a helicopter, Dr. Lehman gives us a front-row seat to how this unconventional approach is transforming his surgical practice in Indiana.

...and let’s be honest, flying is just plain awesome!

0:00 Introduction

1:58 Family Aviation Roots and Grandpa's Flying Legacy

12:47 Trading Long Drives for Short Flights During Residency

19:51 The Real Economics of Maintaining Three Aircraft

25:31 Robinson R44 Operations and Beating the Air into Submission

29:23 Why a Helicopter Provides Crucial Direct Hospital Access

34:03 Getting a Helicopter License in Just 54 Days

38:17 Landing at Hospitals, Schools and Family Farms

41:53 Transforming Friends Through Rural Peace After City Chaos

47:03 Weather Limitations and Always Having a Safety Plan B

52:24 When $400 Per Hour Flying Actually Makes Financial Sense

54:08 Small Minds vs. Creative Rural Transportation Solutions

59:09 Designing an Intentional Rural Surgical Practice

Resources Mentioned:

Cleveland Helicopters
https://clevelandhelicopters.com/

One Six Right
https://www.onesixright.com/