A TURF WAR IS BREAKING OUT IN VINCENNES, INDIANA over who gets to run the ambulance calls in the city.

The fire chief has approached the city council with a request to begin operating an emergency ambulance from the FD.  The city is currently served by a private ambulance company that operates in the entire county.

According to tv station WTHI:

The department is facing some deep budget cuts, and to make up for it, they are considering expanding the medical service they provide off of the rescue truck with full ambulance service runs.

“What we’re wanting to do is start transporting the patients, so we can receive the reimbursement from insurance companies and individuals,” said Vincennes Assistant Fire Chief David Halter.

Knox County EMS, the private firm says that any intrusion into their coverage area will be financially devastating.  “We’ve already been hit hard with fuel prices,” their spokesman said, “and just to be a back up would be very difficult with them coming along trying to take the first runs.”

Asst. Chief Halter responded, “We’re not wanting the whole pie.  We just want our own little piece.”

At least they’re being up front about it.  The city council is “studying” the proposal.

Read the story HERE.

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