Are there cities that currently depend solely on a private provider for paramedic/ambulance transport services?
Absolutely. San Diego, California, privatized its EMS systems nearly 15 years ago. The city’s fire department recently tried to win back the contract in a competitive bidding process, but failed. It is estimated San Diego saves about $2.7 million annually by contracting for EMS with a private provider. The city of Riverside, California, also contracts for its EMS with a private provider. They city estimates it saves about $1 million annually. What is the greatest challenge you face in defending your position in the Pekin and Peoria marketplaces? The issues are very complex. We’re working hard to educate people about such issues as the benefits of privatization, the differences between public safety and health care and the risks of jeopardized patient care. By far the greatest challenge we have is trying to argue an issue with America’s last great hero – the firefighter. Firefighters have endeared themselves into the hearts of all of us. They risk their lives for public safety every day
