PORTAGE (WKZO-AM/FM) — Portage officials wanted to pick an ambulance service back in the early 1990s but couldn’t decide whether Pride Care or Life EMS should serve the city, so they had both firms alternate from month to month so they could compare.
The one-month-on, one-month-off schedule was supposed to last a year, but they’ve been alternating for well over two decades now.
Wednesday night, Portage finally made up their mind after putting both firms through a rigorous evaluation process.
They picked Pride Care, which happens to be headquartered in Portage. They will get a three-year contract with the option for renewals.
Dr. Bill Fales, the Director of the Kalamazoo County Medical Control Authority, said the current system has slowed response times not only in Portage, but county wide, as the two firms have had to shift manpower to accommodate the irregular schedule.
Pride Care says rates will remain the same and Life EMS memberships will be honored.
