Fort Worth’s EMS system will likely change, what that could mean for you

The City of Fort Worth is contemplating adjustments to its EMS system following a study revealing lagging response times and increased workload last year.

Conducted by Fitch and Associates, the study focused on MedStar, the agency providing ambulance and EMS services to Fort Worth and 13 other cities through an inter-city agreement.

Presenting the final report update to the Ad Hoc Council Committee on Emergency Medical Response, Fitch’s findings highlighted how MedStar’s recent financial challenges affected resource deployment, resulting in longer response times and heightened staff workload.

Matt Zavadsky, MedStar’s spokesperson, emphasized their long-standing concerns about financial issues. He noted the escalating costs faced by EMS agencies nationwide, particularly exacerbated since the pandemic.

Currently, MedStar primarily relies on fees from health insurance and government programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, for its budget.

Zavadsky revealed that MedStar sought public funding from the city to sustain services, prompting the study to delve into the current EMS system’s efficiency.

The study outlines four EMS models:

1. Continuation of MedStar with $3.2 million in public funding.
2. Transitioning EMS services to the Fort Worth Fire Department, costing around $10.5 million.
3. Absorption of MedStar by the city or establishment of a new third-service EMS agency, with an estimated cost of $15.3 million.
4. Contracting with a provider through an RFP process, estimated at $9.4 million.

Fort Worth Assistant City Manager Valerie Washington highlighted that Fitch’s costs exclude capital expenses, such as ambulance or building purchases.

Washington emphasized the importance of exploring all options and considering factors beyond cost, including staffing, contract management, and long-term viability.

Each option aims to improve response times, potentially reducing them by 5.5 minutes, ensuring swift assistance for critical medical cases.

The committee plans to further discuss these options at upcoming meetings in April. Any recommendations will be presented to the full city council for deliberation and a vote.