County leaders push for new ambulances amid critical shortages

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for new ambulances in Saluda County, highlighting the challenges posed by an aging fleet and the increasing demand for emergency medical services. The county has not purchased a new ambulance since 2015, relying on ARPA funds for previous acquisitions. The latest order, placed in November 2023, has yet to be fulfilled, complicating the county's ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

The discussion revealed that the county's ambulances are heavily utilized, averaging about 60,000 miles per year, with each trip to the nearest hospital requiring a round trip of 200 to 250 miles. Officials expressed concern over the reliability of older vehicles, noting instances where ambulances have broken down while transporting critical patients. This situation underscores the urgency for new vehicles to ensure the safety and efficiency of emergency services.

Despite these challenges, Saluda County's emergency medical services have maintained an impressive average response time of 8 to 10 minutes, a statistic that has garnered attention from neighboring counties. The meeting also acknowledged the collaborative efforts with surrounding counties, which have provided assistance during peak times.

Personnel levels were discussed, revealing that the department is currently one staff member short but is in better shape than in previous years. Officials emphasized the importance of keeping ambulances in optimal condition and expressed gratitude for the dedication of the emergency services team.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to addressing the needs of the community and ensuring that emergency services remain reliable and effective.