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Lycoming County proclaims EMS Week and accepts state funding for equipment
Summary
Lycoming County commissioners proclaimed May 17–23 as National EMS Week, recognized local EMS personnel and accepted $143,347.93 in Department of Health funds earmarked for CPAP devices, patient-transfer sheets, traction splints and AEDs for fire-based EMS units.
Lycoming County commissioners on Wednesday proclaimed May 17–23 as National Emergency Medical Services Week and recognized local EMS personnel for their role in day-to-day emergency response. William Miller of the LTS EMS Regional Council described the region’s coverage — roughly 140 licensed EMS units across 50 agencies serving about 160,000 residents — and thanked the board for the proclamation.
Why it matters: The board also voted to accept $143,347.93 in additional fiscal-year funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. County officials said the money is already earmarked for equipment and supplies to improve prehospital care in the region.
The county’s list of purchases includes four continuous positive airway pressure devices (CPAPs) per ambulance, two patient-transfer moving sheets, traction splinting devices and AEDs for designated fire-based QRS units. "Every day, EMS providers respond to cardiac arrests, overdoses, motor vehicle crashes and other urgent emergencies," William Miller said. "These resources will help crews deliver life-saving interventions before patients reach the hospital."
Commissioners and local fire and EMS leaders used the proclamation and funding acceptance to highlight staffing pressures across EMS agencies. The board approved the proclamation and the acceptance of state funds by voice vote. The county also asked invited EMS leaders to join commissioners for a photo and thanked them for their service.
Next steps: The county will apply the Department of Health funds to the stated equipment purchases for the region’s ambulances and QRS units. Commissioners indicated continued attention to staffing and equipment needs during regular budget and program reviews.
