Hot Springs City Board considers franchise award for LifeNet EMS services

The Hot Springs Board of Directors meeting on April 2, 2025, spotlighted the urgent decision to award a franchise to Survival Flight, as the current agreement with LifeNet expired on March 31. Mayor Pat McCabe emphasized the importance of continuity in emergency medical services, asking LifeNet's COO, Brett Piney, if they were prepared to maintain service during the decision-making process. Piney assured the board that LifeNet would not abandon the community, stating, "That's just not the right thing to do for the citizens."

The meeting featured passionate testimonies from local medical professionals, including Dr. John Webb, who highlighted the critical role of effective trauma care in Arkansas. Webb praised LifeNet for their commitment to quality service, sharing a recent experience where their team demonstrated exceptional care in a challenging situation. He noted, "They wanted to know, could we have done anything different? What did we do? Was there anything here doctor Webb we should have changed?" This level of dedication, he argued, is vital for improving patient outcomes in trauma situations.

Diane Lafayette, a board member of LifeNet, also spoke about the organization's commitment to the community and the challenges faced in the emergency medical services sector. She reflected on her tenure and the importance of having local representation on the board, underscoring the dedication of LifeNet's staff to the Hot Springs area.

As the board deliberates on the franchise award, the discussions highlighted the community's reliance on LifeNet's services and the potential impact of any changes in emergency medical care. The outcome of this decision will be crucial for ensuring that residents continue to receive timely and effective medical assistance.