MANISTIQUE, MI — April 10, 2026 — Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital (SMH) has strengthened its emergency response capabilities with the purchase of two LUCAS® mechanical chest compression devices, enhancing life-saving care both within the hospital and across the community.
The LUCAS device is an advanced mechanical CPR system designed to deliver consistent, high-quality chest compressions during cardiac arrest. By automating this critical function, it ensures uninterrupted compressions at the correct depth and rate—while allowing emergency responders to focus on other essential, life-saving interventions.
In rural communities like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where time, distance, and staffing challenges can impact emergency response, this technology plays a vital role in improving outcomes.
“In rural emergencies, where time, distance and staffing matter, this technology strengthens our ability to deliver life-saving care,” said Robert Mach, CEO of Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital. “The addition of these devices allows our teams to focus on critical interventions while ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality compressions.”
One LUCAS device will be stationed in the SMH Emergency Department, while the second will be placed on a local ambulance. This strategic deployment highlights the strong partnership between Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital and local EMS providers, ensuring seamless continuity of care—from the moment responders arrive on scene through transport and into the hospital.
“The LUCAS device will be a welcomed addition to the capabilities already offered by Manistique EMS,” said Timothy Russell, Director of Manistique Public Safety. “It reduces rescuer fatigue, enables safer patient transport, and allows personnel to focus on other critical, lifesaving tasks. With ongoing EMS staffing shortages both locally and nationwide, this device acts as a vital partner to the ambulance crew delivering care en route to the hospital.”
By maintaining consistent compressions, the LUCAS device supports improved patient care while freeing medical personnel to perform other key components of advanced cardiac life support, including airway management, defibrillation, and medication administration.
This initiative represents a total investment of $26,836.12, made possible through a combination of hospital funding and generous community support.
Key contributors include:
SMH also recognizes the collaborative efforts of its internal teams—including Med-Surg/ER staff, pharmacy, fund development, and senior leadership—whose dedication and teamwork helped bring this important initiative to life.
“Thanks to strong community partnerships and dedicated staff, we are better equipped than ever to respond when seconds count,” Mach said.
Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital remains committed to advancing care and preserving independence by investing in innovative technologies and partnerships that improve access to high-quality health care across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
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