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LifeNet reports 6,516 local ambulance responses, $4M in investments and pay increases
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Summary
LifeNet told the council it responded to 6,516 calls in 2025, saw a 13% survival rate for sudden cardiac arrest (above the ~9% national average), added ALS-capable vehicles and mechanical CPR devices, invested about $4 million and increased paramedic starting pay to $70,000.
LifeNet presented its 2025 annual report to the Texarkana City Council on Feb. 9, 2026, highlighting operations, training and equipment investments supporting emergency medical services in the Texarkana division.
A LifeNet representative, Alisa, told the council LifeNet responded to 6,516 requests for ambulance service in the Texarkana area last year. She said the busiest time for transports is about 10 a.m., and that January and October were the busiest months for the division. LifeNet reported 101 sudden cardiac arrests with a 13 percent survival rate, which Alisa noted compares favorably to a national average she cited at about 9 percent.
Alisa described enhancements during 2025 including two new ALS-capable vehicles, deployment of a Lucas mechanical CPR device, Ferno NeoMates infant cot restraints, and new power cots that automate lifting and reduce injury risk to staff and patients. She said the equipment and vehicle investments total roughly $4,000,000. LifeNet has increased paramedic pay, and Alisa said paramedics now can start at $70,000; EMT starting pay is currently at about $37,000 with planned increases next budget year. The agency said it expanded in-house leadership training and partnered with a local college to strengthen the paramedic pipeline.
Council members asked about certification differences between EMTs and paramedics and about pay scales; presenters explained paramedic coursework and additional pharmacology certification requirements and said EMTs assist paramedics and may drive ambulances.
What happens next: LifeNet will continue coordinating with city leadership on staffing, training and equipment needs; the council did not vote on funding during the presentation, but the briefing provides information for future budget and public-safety planning.
