Broome to Study Local EMS Needs

Broome County is launching a study to identify and address the challenges facing Emergency Services agencies in the area.

Many working in Emergency Medical Services have complained about low pay and long hours while dealing with a large number of calls for assistance.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar (D-Port Dickinson), 2^nd District Broome County Legislator Scott Baker (R-Windsor) were joined by representatives from the Broome County Office of Emergency Services and Chenango Ambulance Services, Incorporated Thursday, September 1 to announce plans for the new study.

Officials said the EMS study in Broome County looks to: “identify and address the challenges our local agencies are currently facing and to provide potential solutions moving forward.” There’s no word on when the results of the study are expected to be presented.

Get our free mobile app

Baker, whose district includes Windsor and Sanford as well as part of the Town of Kirkwood and the Villages of Deposit and Windsor, is himself a paramedic.  In a posting on his facebook account, Baker says “I understand that EMS service in our community is vital.” 

Garnar says: “When Broome County residents dial 911, there should ALWAYS be an ambulance ready to answer the call.” He adds: “We won’t stop until we know that EVERY emergency call will ALWAYS be answered!”

One person commenting on the planned study applauded a review of the system citing not only the low pay and long hours but no opportunity for advancement or pension, which can discourage people from stepping up.  The comment also pointed to tax dollars supporting other emergency responders like police and fire agencies but not medical services.