Millcreek 911 Choice

The Facts:

Over the past several months, EmergyCare Executive Director, Bill Hagerty, has been in discussions with Millcreek Township Supervisor, Rick Figaski, Millcreek Paramedic Service Executive Director, Brandon Kramer, Erie County Councilman, Phil Fatica and Erie County Public Safety Director, Chip Love. They had made the request that EmergyCare eliminate the 870-1000 number currently used by Millcreek residents and businesses that wish to use EmergyCare for their emergency ambulance needs. By calling 870-1000 these individuals can contact EmergyCare directly. Because we, at EmergyCare, believe Millcreek residents deserve to have a choice, Mr. Hagerty refused to take this option away from our loyal members and supporters in the Township.

Mr. Hagerty later agreed to stop advertising 870-1000 if Millcreek residents were permitted to have 911 Choice, meaning they can simply call 911 in a medical emergency and request EmergyCare. Later, discussion came up to extend 911 Choice throughout Erie County. Mr. Hagerty cautioned County officials that this may cause concerns for the volunteer fire departments throughout Erie County. At no time did EmergyCare pursue countywide 911 Choice, since it was never our intention to take transports away from the local volunteer fire departments. We have been providing paramedic services to Millcreek Township since 1985 and we simply wish to continue to do so when requested.

Erie County, Millcreek Township & EmergyCare were all allegedly researching the legal aspects of 911 Choice. Mr. Hagerty met with Erie County Public Safety Director, Chip Love on April 6th to review EmergyCare’s findings. At no time did EmergyCare ever “threaten a lawsuit”.

As of April 12, 2010, Mr. Hagerty has not received an official letter signed by Mr. Grossman, although he has received an unsigned copy of the letter from approximately 10 other sources. 

EmergyCare believes in 911 Choice in Millcreek. We have thousands of members in Millcreek who had their freedom of choice revoked by Millcreek Township Supervisors when Millcreek Paramedic Service was formed in 1999. EmergyCare supports sending the closest ambulance on high-priority (life-threatening) emergencies. The bottom line is, EmergyCare is committed to providing all the communities we serve, including Millcreek Township, with the very highest level of service.

* If you believe in choice, please become of fan of the "Millcreek 911 Choice" page on Facebook!