Submitted photo
Pictured are John Horan, CJEMS team member and Gabe Heckert, district chief/assistant manager field operations, Geisinger EMS Western Region.

From staff reports

LEWISTOWN — Changes are coming to emergency medical services in Juniata County as Geisinger has acquired Central Juniata Emergency Medical Services, a move aimed at maintaining reliable ambulance coverage amid growing demand.

The transition follows months of discussions between EMS providers, county officials and health system leaders, as agencies across the region face staffing shortages, rising costs and increasing calls for service.

Those pressures have made it more difficult for EMS organizations to meet growing patient needs and maintain long-term sustainability.

Under the agreement, Geisinger will assume operations of Central Juniata EMS, with the goal of providing more consistent emergency and non-emergency transport services in the area, including support for Geisinger Lewistown Hospital and surrounding communities.

Steve Baumgardner, president of the CJEMS board, said the partnership is intended to help stabilize services.

“Partnering with Geisinger provides the stability and support we need to continue serving our community reliably and sustainably,” Baumgardner said.

The change comes as EMS providers across central Pennsylvania report increasing call volumes, workforce challenges and higher costs tied to equipment, training and patient care.

Officials said the transition is expected to bring more consistent coverage and reduce the risk of service interruptions, while also offering additional training and support for EMS personnel.

Geisinger officials said the move is not intended to replace other EMS providers, but to work alongside existing services in the region.

Transition efforts are underway, with EMS transport services beginning at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital on May 3. Full operational control of Central Juniata EMS is expected to begin in early July.