Campbell County Officials Explore Ambulance Service Needs for Newcastle Community

During a recent public meeting at the Weston County Senior Service Center, local officials discussed the pressing need for improved emergency medical services (EMS) in the area. The meeting, held on August 4, 2025, highlighted the challenges faced by the county's ambulance service and the steps being taken to address them.

One of the key topics was the current state of ambulance coverage in Weston County. Officials noted that while there are two ambulances stationed in Newcastle, only one is staffed with a paramedic around the clock. This limited coverage has raised concerns about the community's ability to respond effectively to emergencies, particularly as call volumes increase. The discussion revealed that local volunteers have been stepping up to assist, but their numbers are not sufficient to meet the growing demand.

The meeting also addressed the financial constraints impacting the ambulance service. Officials explained that while Campbell County Health provides some funding, there are concerns about operational losses if the service expands. This financial dilemma complicates efforts to ensure that a reliable 911 ambulance is available for emergencies while also supporting the local hospital's patient transfer needs.

To tackle these issues, the county is pursuing a needs assessment funded by a state grant. This assessment, conducted by Safe Tech Solutions, aims to evaluate call volumes and determine the optimal staffing model for the ambulance service. The findings will help officials make informed decisions about whether to maintain the current setup, increase staffing, or implement a combination of paid and volunteer services.

As the community grapples with these challenges, the outcomes of the needs assessment will be crucial in shaping the future of emergency medical services in Weston County. Local leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring that residents have access to timely and effective emergency care, a goal that remains at the forefront of their discussions.