07/28/2024
Emergency Medicine Legend Dr. Michael Copass Passes Away
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing yesterday, July 26, of Dr. Michael K. Copass, a pioneer in emergency medicine and a cherished member of our community. Dr. Copass, 86, dedicated his career to saving lives and advancing the field of emergency medical care, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him.
Dr. Copass' illustrious career began after graduating from Stanford University and receiving his M.D. from Northwestern University in 1964. He served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps as a Major from 1965 where he was awarded an Army Commendation Medal for his outstanding service. He started his career at the University of Washington School of Medicine in 1969 as a neurology resident, and he went on to hold various prestigious positions, including Director of Emergency Services at Harborview Medical Center from 1973 to 2008 and Medical Director of Airlift Northwest from 1982 to 2008.
“Dr. Michael Copass was a visionary leader who revolutionized the field of emergency medical care," said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. "His innovative work to strengthen the Medic One program, a partnership between the Seattle Fire Department and medical providers, has become a national model for excellence in pre-hospital care, saving countless lives. He is a true hero and made an indelible impact on our city. My thoughts are with his family.”
"Renowned for his contributions to pre-hospital emergency care, Dr. Copass was instrumental in elevating Seattle’s Medic One program," said Dr. Michael Sayre, medical director of Medic One and an Emergency Services provider at Harborview Medical Center. Copass joined the program in its early years and played a crucial role in developing it into a world-renowned early-response paramedic initiative.
In 1975, he became the Director of the Harborview Medical Center's Paramedic Training Program. In this role, he shaped the careers of countless paramedics and established one of the most rigorous and respected training programs in the nation.
His relentless dedication and innovative approach expanded the program's scope to include not only cardiac care but also trauma, obstetrics, pediatric care, and more. He also served as the Seattle Fire Department Medical Director, further solidifying his influence in emergency medical services.
“Dr. Copass originated a set of ideals that still defines to this day the gold standard for pre-hospital care. All of us at Seattle Fire are thinking of the Copass family,” said Harold D. Scoggins, Fire Chief of the Seattle Fire Department.
In 1982, he founded Airlift Northwest, inspired by a critical incident in Sitka, Alaska, where he struggled to secure timely air transport for a severely burned child. To prevent such tragedies in the future, Airlift Northwest provides immediate and efficient air medical trauma care and transport. Since its founding, Airlift NW has transported over 100,000 patients to critical care facilities.
Read more about Dr. Copass' impact on Seattle, King County and beyond on our Fireline blog: https://fireline.seattle.gov/2024/07/27/dr-michael-copass/
Much love to the Copass family and paramedic community.
