A Critical Call
What if you call 911 and no one answers?
In parts of rural Wyoming, that’s getting closer to a reality as EMS agencies struggle to keep their heads above water. Whether they’re independent companies, part of a hospital or supported by local governments, they’re facing an uphill battle to staff ambulances amid increasing costs, decreasing volunteerism, stagnating reimbursement rates and a growing need.
What was once seen as solely a transport service to a hospital — and therefore reimbursed as such — has become an increasingly expensive and highly trained field. But with an aging Wyoming and rural hospitals struggling to stay financially solvent, EMS agencies are looking towards an increasingly uncertain future.
In this three-part series, WyoFile examines Wyoming’s ailing emergency services, and why things are starting to look dire.
Should the state provide life support to Wyoming’s ailing ambulance services?
Most people expect an ambulance to arrive quickly when they call for help. But Wyoming’s EMS system isn’t funded like an essential service, and a critical failure can cost lives.
The outfits saving Wyoming lives struggle to save themselves
EMS agencies are considering solutions like consolidation to stay afloat, but the patchwork of funding makes financial sustainability challenging.
EMS agencies, communities work to make Wyoming safer amid serious challenges
By better educating the public about ambulance services and their roles in saving lives, agencies and communities are hoping to gain support across the state.