Ulster County officials are taking steps to address critical gaps in emergency medical services by applying for a Municipal Certificate of Need (MuniCON), a move that would allow the county to coordinate with local agencies to improve Advanced Life Support (ALS) coverage in underserved areas.
County Executive Jen Metzger announced the initiative Monday, citing a plan developed by Ulster County Emergency Services Director Everett Erichsen. The plan, pending approval by the County Legislature, aims to improve response times and patient care while easing the administrative burden on municipalities.
“Ulster County, like many counties across the state, faces gaps in this life-saving service,” Metzger said. “The County Department of Emergency Services can play a very valuable role, improving response times and patient care while also reducing the burden on municipalities for overseeing ALS contracts and financial reimbursements.”
Legislator Robert Kovacs has introduced a resolution to authorize the county’s application for the MuniCON. If approved, the county would partner with existing ALS providers, oversee billing and service, and work with local governments to share costs.
ALS services, which provide advanced medical care for serious conditions such as heart attacks and strokes, account for 60 percent of all EMS calls in Ulster County. Many local EMS agencies operate at a Basic Life Support (BLS) level, making ALS coverage a pressing need.
“This resolution is a critical step toward ensuring that every resident of Ulster County has access to reliable and timely emergency medical services,” Kovacs said. “By applying for a Municipal Certificate of Need, we are putting the health and safety of our community first.”
County officials say the plan would centralize oversight of EMS contracts, enhance mutual aid collaboration, and strengthen long-term sustainability for local agencies.
“By working closely with municipalities and existing ambulance service providers, we are creating a more coordinated approach to EMS coverage,” Erichsen said. “This collaboration is vital to strengthening our
response times and enhancing the overall quality of care.”
Deputy Director and EMS Coordinator Pamela Finnerty called the plan a “proactive approach” to addressing the challenges of sustainable and accountable EMS service.
If the legislature approves the resolution, the county will submit its MuniCON application to the state.