Akron Reporter

Akron, Ohio — On June 1, Akron Fire Chief Joseph Natko issued the following statement in relation to American Medical Response’s planned closure beginning August 1, 2023:

The City of Akron and the Akron Fire Department are disappointed in the decision of American Medical Response (AMR) to permanently close its facility on 485 S. Broadway. This closure will result in 50 employees being laid off, including EMTs, paramedics, supervisors and a mechanic, and will place additional strain on Akron Fire’s EMS crews.

The relationship between the Akron Fire Department and AMR has always been amicable with a “no cost” contract in place that utilized AMR as a subcontractor for the City for non-emergency calls for transport. AMR was able to profit through this contract. Unfortunately, AMR came to the City several months ago and explained that they would not renew their contract with the City unless we were able to pay a significant subsidy to AMR. This payment of a subsidy was untenable for the City of Akron and its taxpayers. The decision was made to support Akron Fire with increased staffing and resources to compensate for the additional non-emergency patient transports that will be conducted by Akron Fire starting August 1, 2023.

The men and women of Akron Fire are incredibly resilient and have been preparing to handle this additional patient transport load. Mayor Horrigan and Akron City Council have been responsive and supportive of the needs of Akron Fire when this difficult situation was presented to them. Because of our employees, and due to the support of the City, Akron Fire will continue to adapt to the ever changing environment of Emergency Medical Services and provide excellent care to Akron’s patients.

Original source can be found here.