Crozer EMS serves over 12 Delaware County municipalities, seeking solutions after recent service closures.

Delaware County municipalities are now facing significant challenges in securing emergency medical services (EMS) following the impending closure of the Crozer Health System. For decades, Crozer has been a cornerstone provider of essentially free EMS support to numerous communities, including Upper Darby and Chester. The health system’s closure has sparked concerns regarding longer wait times for emergency response, as the facility will cease dispatching emergency vehicles entirely.

Chester Mayor Stefan Roots emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that while ambulances will continue to service Chester and adjacent areas, the reduction in emergency vehicles will inevitably lead to increased response times. This is particularly concerning, as delays can be critical in life-threatening situations.

The potential closure was officially outlined when Crozer’s owner, Prospect Medical Holdings, filed for bankruptcy and announced its plans in court. This impending shutdown complicates efforts by local officials to prepare alternative EMS support, as they have been awaiting definitive closure timelines to formulate a strategy.

Starting Wednesday, ambulances will be redirected from Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland and Taylor Hospital in Ridley Park. Although EMS services will not be completely discontinued until May 2, the process of phasing out services is expected to pose logistical challenges to municipalities that have historically relied on Crozer.

Delaware County’s 911 dispatch will remain operational, ensuring that ambulances will still respond to local calls. However, municipalities must now explore options to either purchase or contract their own emergency vehicles and staffing. Some areas, such as Swarthmore, have developed their own EMS services, but many regions will face a significant reduction in emergency response capacity.

Officials from Aston Township expressed concerns regarding the unexpected financial burdens this transition will impose, urging state and county authorities for assistance to maintain uninterrupted EMS services. Chester city leaders, despite their budgetary constraints, have committed to reallocating funds to ensure that emergency vehicles remain available.

Throughout Delaware County, discussions are underway about collaborative approaches to deliver EMS services effectively. Municipalities are contemplating resource-sharing agreements to sustain operations. Delaware County Council Chair Monica Taylor confirmed ongoing dialogues with municipalities to facilitate the transition.

Leaders such as Upper Darby Mayor Ed Brown are advocating for regional solutions to ensure sustainable EMS services across neighboring communities, highlighting the necessity for unity among local governments. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, officials are actively seeking to bring diverse communities together to navigate the EMS crisis.

As municipalities grapple with these challenges, the urgency of the situation is magnified, affecting not only the logistics of emergency services but also the health and safety of residents across Delaware County. Local officials assert that the responsibility will inevitably shift to remaining emergency services, which will have to manage increased demand amid a strained system. The unfolding situation remains fluid, and the need for an organized, collaborative response is becoming increasingly critical.

Local leaders continue to seek community involvement in brainstorming solutions, but for now, the shortage of EMS resources presents a pressing challenge that requires immediate, cooperative action from all stakeholders involved.