The Greene County Ambulance System Policy Meeting held on September 25, 2025, focused on critical issues affecting emergency medical services (EMS) in the region. Key discussions revolved around group purchasing strategies, billing efficiency, and the challenges faced by local agencies in maintaining adequate staffing and resources.

One of the primary topics was the potential for a group purchasing program aimed at reducing costs for medical supplies and equipment. Participants debated the effectiveness of such a program, with some expressing skepticism about its ability to significantly impact overall expenses. Concerns were raised that while bulk purchasing might save money on items like band-aids, it would not address more pressing issues such as staffing shortages and employee retention. Several attendees emphasized that the real challenges lie in keeping personnel at stations and managing overtime costs, rather than merely consolidating supply orders.

The conversation also touched on the need for a more efficient billing system. Attendees discussed the possibility of developing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a unified billing and invoicing system that could streamline processes across multiple agencies. The goal would be to enhance billing efficiency, lower costs, and ultimately increase revenue for the EMS system.

Another significant point of discussion was the impact of local prisons on the EMS system. Participants highlighted the burden placed on ambulance services due to frequent calls from correctional facilities, which often require additional resources and can strain local agencies. Suggestions were made for county legislators to advocate for changes at the state level to alleviate some of these pressures.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of managing EMS in Greene County, with participants expressing a desire for more collaboration and effective solutions. While group purchasing was seen as a starting point, many attendees called for a more comprehensive approach to address the systemic issues facing the EMS community. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for actionable steps moving forward, as participants left with a sense of urgency to find solutions that would truly benefit the EMS system and the communities it serves.