Commissioner Dave Ray – EMS Challenges

November 25, 2022

Lawrenceburg, TENNESSEE: The Emergency Medical Services Department of Lawrence County is experiencing some challenges in regards to pay and scheduling of employees. Currently, our EMS Department is on a 24/48 schedule (meaning employees work 24 hours and are off for 48). Many of our surrounding counties operate on the more modern 24/72 schedule, (meaning employees work for 24 hours and are off for 72) giving employees more time to decompress, spend time with their families, and rest. This major change across the state is making other counties and private agencies more attractive to new and seasoned EMS professionals.

I commend County Executive David Morgan for creating the Emergency Services Committee to strategically plan for upcoming changes in the departments of Emergency Medical Services and Volunteer Fire Departments. Our EMS Department is in need of major upgrades to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our EMS Employees. They take care of us, so it is paramount that we return the favor.

Currently, a plan is being created in the Emergency Services committee to address the many issues faced by our EMS personnel. Although this action is not the most timely, it is the best course of action to ensure proper planning and direction for our EMS Department. Lawrence County is growing and it is paramount that we be prepared for this growth accordingly.

I will work steadfastly with County Executive Morgan in addition to our Emergency Services Committee, EMS Department, and Budget Committee to assist in creating a solution to ensure our employees are taken care of and our EMS Department is as efficient as possible.

Lastly, and most importantly, I want to thank the men and women of our EMS Department for their service to our community.

Commissioner Dave Ray

Lawrence County

District 13 Commissioner

P: 931-231-4958

E: dray@lawcotn.org

W: daveforlawco.com

Dave Ray