Tom Judge Appointed to Federal Advisory Committee on Air Ambulance Quality and Patient Safety
Tom Judge, founding Executive Director of LifeFlight of Maine, was appointed to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advisory Committee on Air Ambulance Quality and Patient Safety. The Committee was created by Congress as part of the No Surprises Act to prevent patients from balance billing disputes.
The thirteen member committee comprised of insurance regulators, patient advocacy organizations, insurers, accrediting organizations and providers is charged with making recommendations on standards for patient safety and clinical quality standards, clinical triage criteria for use of air ambulances, differentiation of clinical and aviation capabilities of air ambulances, and how to enhance service reliability of air ambulances during adverse conditions, such as in poor weather or at night.
“While small in size, LifeFlight has been consistently recognized at the national and international level for safety, quality of care, and innovation.” says Tom. “I am looking forward to working with the other experts on the Committee to advise the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and Transportation, as well as Congress, on strategies to improve patient care and safety during air medical transport.”
In a letter announcing the appointment, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg referenced Tom’s work in the industry and how his “experience and leadership will add valuable insights and perspectives that will help further the committee’s mission.”
Tom previously served on two other Federal Advisory Committees—the National EMS Advisory Council and the DOT Air Ambulance Patient Billing Advisory Committee. He has also served as a subject matter expert regarding air ambulances for the Institute of Medicine, the Government Accountability Office, and the National Transportation Safety Board.
“Tom is among the leading advocates in the US for air medicine and emergency medical services,” said Joe Kellner, CEO of LifeFlight of Maine. “He has worked at practically every level of EMS — as a volunteer provider, a fulltime paramedic, the founder of Maine’s only air ambulance service, and an advocate here in Maine, in Washington, and around the world. LifeFlight of Maine, and every air medical provider in the US, is fortunate to have Tom advocating on our behalf, and on behalf of our patients. His appointment to this prestigious committee is well-deserved recognition of his expertise and dedication.”
Tom was the founding Executive Director of LifeFlight of Maine in 1998. He stepped back from this role in October 2023 to focus on legislative advocacy, working with the FAA on national safety initiatives, and supporting LifeFlight’s research group. Under his leadership, LifeFlight has received numerous awards for safety, innovation, and clinical excellence.
