Dickinson County Board considers ambulance service ordinance for local agencies

A proposed resolution aimed at prioritizing local ambulance services in Dickenson County took center stage during the Board of Supervisors Public Hearing on March 25, 2025. The discussion highlighted concerns over the current protocol for emergency transport, which some believe favors out-of-county services over local agencies, potentially jeopardizing both patient safety and local finances.

Local officials expressed frustration that emergency room staff often call outside ambulance services instead of utilizing established local providers like the Clintwood Rescue Squad. "We're paying our people to sit there... because we're not getting the calls," one official noted, emphasizing the need for a system that keeps county tax dollars within the community.

The proposed ordinance seeks to ensure that local agencies receive preferential treatment for emergency calls, thereby enhancing response times and financial sustainability. "If the agencies can bring more money in, we're less likely to come up here and ask you for money," another speaker pointed out, underscoring the financial implications of the current system.

The conversation also touched on the importance of patient choice in emergency situations. Officials suggested that patients should have a say in which ambulance service is called, a point that resonated with many in attendance. "Patient choice should be given a choice," one member stated, advocating for a more patient-centered approach.

The board agreed to further investigate the issue, with plans to collaborate with local ambulance services to draft a resolution that could address these concerns. The anticipated outcome is a system that not only supports local agencies but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of Dickenson County residents.