In a move to enhance emergency medical services, the City of Nome has opted to transfer the operation of its ground ambulance services to Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC). This change, scheduled to take effect at 12:01 a.m. on April 30, aims to ensure a more reliable and efficient response to medical emergencies. The decision was finalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on April 19.
The change was prompted by the need for more consistent ambulance coverage. Previously the city operated a volunteer-based ambulance service. NSHC will provide 24 hour, seven day per week coverage with two qualified staffers working 12 hour shifts. They also plan to schedule a second-out team to ensure back up coverage.
With NSHC operating the ambulances Nome City Manager Glenn Steckman anticipates improvements to the quality of service.