Photo courtesy of Port Royal EMS
The ambulance used by Port Royal EMS stands at the ready.

PORT ROYAL — Across the country, emergency medical services agencies continue to face staffing and funding shortages. Area agencies like the Port Royal EMS are no exception.

Port Royal EMS has new leadership which is committed to providing the same level of quality care that Juniata County has received over the years.

Port Royal EMS recently announced the appointment of Gabriel Heckert, who brings a wealth of emergency medical and leadership expertise, as the new chief.

Additionally, Brittiani Everts, paramedic, has been named deputy chief, further strengthening the leadership team at Port Royal EMS.

While there have been changes in leadership, the core mission of Port Royal EMS remains unchanged — to provide high-quality care to the residents of

Juniata County.

Port Royal EMS is one of the only paid EMS companies in Juniata County, and it operates the only Advanced Life Support (ALS) unit, ensuring that residents have access to critical care services when they need them most. Their Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) is staffed 24/7 and is ready to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.

ALS services differ from BLS services in several key ways. ALS providers are Paramedics and Prehospital RNs that have advanced training and are equipped to perform a wider range of medical interventions, including administering medications, advanced airway management, cardiac monitoring, and more. This level of care is crucial in emergency situations where patients require immediate and specialized medical attention.

Staffing shortages can impact response times and the quality of care provided to patients. It is essential that Port Royal EMS secures additional funding sources, officials said in a press release.

Without adequate resources, their ability to serve the residents of Juniata County might be compromised.

Heckert and the Port Royal EMS board are actively working to identify new sources of funding to ensure the sustainability of our services.

Neighboring counties are also facing similar challenges, making it even more important for us to maintain a strong and well-equipped EMS system in Juniata County.