Cushing Selectmen Approve EMS Dispatch and Fee Changes Proposed by EMS Director

Cushing EMS Director Helen Damara told the Selectmen on Oct. 10 she wanted two procedural changes to reduce per‑call costs and shore up EMS revenue. First, she asked that when an on‑duty Warren medic is available, Cushing request Warren EMS rather than calling in a paramedic from Thomaston or Rockland; Damara said charging a Thomaston paramedic costs about $500 per call and Rockland about $450, while Warren would charge about $200 when it had staff on duty. Second, Damara said the accountant had recommended raising EMS fees to Medicare rates plus 25%.