Durham EMS
A New Agreement
The Town of Durham and Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps Inc. faced significant challenges with providing around-the-clock ambulance service in town and approached Middlesex Health for help.
On January 3, 2022, Middlesex Health will become the Basic Life Support ambulance provider for the Town of Durham. Middlesex Health and the Town of Durham have a long-standing relationship. Middlesex Health currently provides the paramedic level service to the Town of Durham and is assigned the PSA or Primary Service Area agreement by the State of Connecticut. Durham Volunteer Ambulance Association currently holds the PSA primary service area agreement for the Basic Life Support level. This new venture intends to transfer that agreement to Middlesex from Durham Ambulance. As a result, Middlesex will be responsible for 911 ambulance coverage for the town.
Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps. has proudly served as the town’s EMS provider for many years, but the current model is costing more and more money, and staffing is difficult. The current system is not sustainable, and Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps supports this new agreement.
Middlesex Health is committed to caring for the Durham community, and this decision is in the best interest of the town.
FAQ
Unlike in the past, there will be balance billing. This means that if your insurance only covers a portion of your ambulance bill, you will be responsible for the remaining balance.
Please note that Middlesex Health will work with you to set up a payment process, or obtain financial assistance, if needed.
While Durham Volunteer Ambulance does not currently use balance billing, it was an option it would have needed to pursue if it were to continue to exist. Balance billing would have been the reality for Durham residents regardless of who was providing services.
Ambulance rates are set by the Connecticut Department of Public Health and regulated by its Office of Emergency Medical Services.
Yes! It will continue to be stationed in Durham around the clock — ready to help when needed.
Middlesex Health values its employees and is always looking for qualified individuals to fill open positions. If you are interested in working for Middlesex Health, click here to view open positions and apply.
There is no ongoing fee associated with this service.
There is no change of current practice. The hospital destination can be impacted by several things, including, but not limited to, the patient's choice, the patient’s condition and Connecticut EMS protocols.
As of January 3, 2022, Middlesex Health EMS will be responding to calls for help in place of Durham EMS. As part of the agreement, the assets of Durham EMS will be given to Middlesex to ensure that it has the resources it needs to properly and safely care for the community.
Yes! For the 2022 fair, Middlesex Health will also cover the ambulance duties at the fair.
Town of Durham -- Office of the First Selectman and for Middlesex:
Middlesex Health EMS Manager
28 Crescent Street
Middletown, CT 06457
Middlesex Health EMS Manager
28 Crescent Street
Middletown, CT 06457
860-358-6081