PORT ARTHUR, Texas — Concerns with Acadian Ambulance's response times in Port Arthur continue.
Acadian Ambulance Service had originally declined to sign its yearly contract with the City of Port Arthur in early November 2023, about a week after City Ambulance started working alongside them. Acadian has had a 17-year relationship with the city.
But Acadian later began a new contract, which is good through Nov. 30, 2024.
On Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, Port Arthur City Councilmembers and other city leaders heard a presentation from Acadian Ambulance.
The major concern for them is response times.
A representative for Acadian admitted there were times when the company had "level zero" for Port Arthur, which means there were times when an ambulance was simply not available.
"The current contract requires response times to be met and it's up to the ambulance company to figure out how to do that. That is the challenge in the 2-service model. I've told you guys before, we've made mistakes in the past," the representative said.
Right now, two ambulance companies are designated to different zones in the City of Port Arthur. City leaders say this is to ensure adequate emergency medical resources for everyone.
Reps say they need more time to organize their data. The city is giving Acadian 30 days to do so.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.