Why Some Fire Departments Have Ambulances While Others Do Not

The decision for some fire departments to have their own ambulances while others do not is influenced by a variety of factors including policy, budget, procedure, politics, and legacy. There is no single answer as every department operates under different circumstances and requirements. This article delves into the reasons behind this common discrepancy in emergency response services.

Factors Influencing the Decision

Policy and Politics: Local policies and political will play a significant role in the allocation of resources for fire departments and EMS services. In some areas, political priorities may favor fire department funding over ambulance services. Conversely, in regions where political support is aligned with comprehensive emergency medical services, fire departments with onboard EMTs or paramedics are more common.

Budget Constraints: Financial limitations can significantly impact the decision to purchase or maintain ambulances. Fire departments with tight budgets may find it more cost-effective to rely on private ambulance companies or coordinate with neighboring departments for medical calls. On the other hand, departments with robust budgets can afford to invest in their own ambulances and fully staff them with medical personnel.

Procedures and Legacy: Operational procedures and historical practices also factor into the decision. In some jurisdictions, long-standing traditions and past practices might make it difficult to change the setup. For example, in areas where paramedics are traditionally associated with fire departments, there may be a reluctance to shift responsibilities to private contractors. Additionally, procedures related to medical response and coordination with hospitals might be better managed within the fire department framework.

Alternative Arrangements in Jurisdictions Without Departmental Ambulances

In regions where fire departments do not have their own ambulances, private ambulance companies are often contracted to handle EMS (Emergency Medical Services) calls. This ensures that the community still receives professional medical assistance even if the fire department’s primary mission is fire suppression. It is not uncommon to find both volunteer and paid fire departments operating under such arrangements, further diversifying the landscape of emergency response.

Efficiency and Response Time

There are additional efficiencies that come into play when fire departments handle EMS services. For example, in areas with a higher concentration of fire engines versus ambulances, fire engines can be more readily available to medical emergencies. Cosumnes Fire Department is a prime example where their engines are often closer to emergency scenes and can arrive faster than ambulances, which might be out of the department's boundaries transferring patients. This local presence ensures quicker response times, which is crucial in medical emergencies.

The Role of Cost and Tradition

The management of emergency medical services is often a balancing act between cost and tradition. Cost factors such as purchasing and maintaining ambulances, staffing with paramedics, and the overall financial implications of EMS services are significant considerations. In some cases, local tradition and historical practice, particularly where EMS has traditionally been handled by fire departments, can make it challenging to shift responsibilities to private contractors.

Many EMS services are indeed handled by fire departments, be it volunteer or paid departments. This arrangement is often based on a combination of cost-effectiveness and the existing infrastructure, which already includes trained personnel and equipment.

Conclusion

The variation in fire departments having their own ambulances versus relying on private contractors is a complex issue influenced by multiple factors. Understanding these nuances helps in appreciating the effort put into balancing public safety needs and resource availability. As emergency response continues to evolve, so too will the methods and strategies employed by fire departments to ensure the best possible care is provided to the community they serve.