In a recent government meeting, officials addressed concerns stemming from social media posts regarding emergency medical services (EMS) at local football games. The discussions clarified that there is no record of county EMS being present at these events, despite the involvement of volunteer rescue squads and athletic trainers. School staff with over 15 years of experience confirmed that while ambulances have occasionally been on-site, they were not operated by county EMS.

The State Athletic Association mandates the presence of an athletic trainer or first responder at games, a requirement that local schools meet. Buncombe County, for instance, ensures that an athletic trainer or first responder is available at all games, while Haywood County follows a similar protocol. Other counties, such as Henderson and Rutherford, also employ athletic trainers and utilize rescue squads, although some face limitations regarding ambulance transport.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the issue of EMS turnover within the county. Officials reported a vacancy rate of 7% or less and a voluntary turnover rate of 11.5% over the past year. This turnover was attributed to three employees transitioning to full-time positions elsewhere, although they continue to work part-time with the agency. Other departures included retirements and medical leave, with only two terminations for cause.

These figures indicate an improvement in retention since the implementation of a new salary structure in 2023. Comparatively, the American Ambulance Association reported a national voluntary turnover rate of 26% for full-time paramedics in 2022, highlighting that the county's rates are significantly lower than the national average.