In a significant step toward enhancing emergency medical services, the City of Flint recently introduced its own dedicated ambulance fleet. This initiative aims to address a pressing issue that has long plagued Flint residents: the countywide shortage of ambulances and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, which has led to lengthy wait times for emergency care.
“Our aim is to provide quality and efficient services to this community and ultimately save lives.”
Flint Fire Chief Theron Wiggins
Currently, Genesee County, which spans over 600 square miles, struggles with a shortage of available ambulances. Often, only one ambulance is available to serve the entire county. This scarcity has led to instances when Flint’s first responders, constrained to city limits, faced delays of up to an hour waiting for ambulances to arrive from outside the city.
Mayor’s Vision Becomes Reality
The launch of Flint’s own ambulance service is a result of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley’s proposal to the City Council, which was unanimously approved in late March. The first vehicle, purchased at an approximate cost of $225,000, was funded by Opioid Settlement money rather than taxpayer dollars. This initial purchase was just the beginning; the fleet will soon expand to include three ambulances.
In discussing the initiative, Mayor Neeley expressed his confidence in Flint Fire Department personnel to handle implementation of this new service to the city and reduce reliance on private ambulance companies.
A Commitment to Quality and Efficiency
Flint Fire Chief Theron Wiggins has been instrumental in preparing for the service’s launch. The first ambulance has been equipped with state-of-the-art technology at the Joe Davis Jr. Fire Department Headquarters. Chief Wiggins emphasized the extensive preparation involved: “All City of Flint firefighters are also certified EMTs, and many have pursued additional training in pediatrics and trauma. This means they are fully qualified to drive the ambulance and provide life support.”
Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley introduced the new ambulance at a May press conference.
The new ambulances will feature advanced electronic gurneys and wheelchairs equipped with hydraulic lift systems to reduce back injuries, showcasing the department’s commitment to incorporating innovative technology.
Addressing Specific Needs
The dedicated ambulance service is designed to address the critical need for timely medical response within Flint’s city limits. Flint has seen a troubling rise in opioid overdoses, and the delay in ambulance arrival has been a significant issue. Chief Wiggins noted, “There have been times when our crews waited for 30 minutes to an hour for an ambulance to arrive at the scene of an emergency. This is an unacceptable situation.”
The development of the ambulance service has not been without challenges. Chief Wiggins mentioned that finding grant opportunities was one of the obstacles faced. However, the planning process was thorough, with a detailed business plan outlining the need, operations, costs, and potential revenues, which received approval from the City of Flint Finance Director.
Looking ahead, the long-term goals for the ambulance service are clear: “Our aim is to provide quality and efficient services to this community, ensure safe transportation and ultimately save lives,” Chief Wiggins concluded.
The launch of the dedicated ambulance service is poised to make a meaningful impact on emergency medical response in the City of Flint, offering a crucial lifeline to its residents in times of need.
