Norwood Fire Chief warns of EMS collapse due to hospital closure impacts

During a recent Finance Commission meeting in Norwood, Massachusetts, significant concerns were raised regarding the impact of the local hospital's closure on emergency services and the community's overall health infrastructure. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for additional ambulances and the rising costs associated with maintaining emergency medical services.

One of the primary topics was the increasing demand for ambulance services, which has surged due to a growing population and a rise in medical calls. The fire chief noted that approximately 75% of their call volume is now medical-related, with over 5,100 medical calls recorded last year alone. This trend is expected to continue, particularly as the region's population ages and housing developments increase.

The chief emphasized that without a local hospital, the fire department faces escalating operational costs, including the need to replace ambulances more frequently. Currently, ambulances are expected to last only two to three years due to increased wear and tear from longer travel times and higher call volumes. The cost of a new ambulance can reach up to $6.6 million, and the department is projected to incur an additional $34 million in capital costs over the next decade if the hospital remains closed.

Moreover, the chief expressed concerns about the strain on emergency services, stating that the current system is on the verge of collapse. He highlighted the exhaustion faced by firefighters and EMS personnel, who are dealing with a higher volume of calls while also navigating longer wait times at hospitals due to overcrowding.

The meeting also touched on the financial implications of these challenges, including the need for increased staffing and resources to meet the community's emergency needs. The chief indicated that the department is exploring options for funding and equipment purchases to ensure they can adequately respond to emergencies in the future.

As Norwood continues to grow, the discussions from this meeting underscore the critical need for a robust emergency medical response system and the importance of addressing the gaps left by the hospital's closure. The community's health and safety depend on timely and effective emergency services, making these conversations vital for residents and local leaders alike.