With the launch of the Aston Ambulance Authority last week, four Delaware County communities now have access to 24/7 paramedic service, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily Times.
A total of 17 paramedics, an EMS chief, and a medical director were sworn in on March 24, launching a new model for lifesaving paramedic services that will serve Aston Township, Lower Chichester Township, Trainer, and Marcus Hook.
Bruce Egan Jr., the first sworn in, will take on the role of EMS chief, drawing on over three decades in emergency medical services, most of it spent at Crozer EMS.
According to Egan, community focus and clinical excellence will serve as the guiding principles for the new paramedic service. Those with five years of experience will earn around $45 per hour, while full-time staff will receive approximately $105,000 a year, with 10 percent going toward retirement benefits.
Egan said the authority needed the support from local municipalities and residents after prehospital care was lost with the collapse of Crozer Health.
“Without the community support and elected officials supporting us, we would never be here … and quite frankly, probably wouldn’t have a paramedic service,” he added.
Read more about the Aston Ambulance Authority in the Daily Times.
