Effective Monday, September 15th, Life EMS will officially take over the operations of Mercy Ambulance, a long-standing service provider in the Hastings/Barry County area.
In mid-August, Life EMS began the orientation process of many of the current Mercy Ambulance staff. The company aims to employ as many of the current local EMTs and paramedics as possible, ensuring continuity of care and maintaining the trusted service the community has relied on for years.
For now, Life EMS will continue operating out of the existing Mercy Ambulance station at 504 S. Michigan Avenue in Hastings. The service will be deploying two fully staffed and equipped paramedic ambulances to respond to 911 medical requests in the City of Hastings, Hastings Township, Carlton Township, Baltimore Township, and Hope Township. Additionally, Life EMS will continue to serve the local hospital and surrounding regions.
Life EMS is the leading provider of emergency medical services in West Michigan, operating across more than 5,200 square miles including Kent, Kalamazoo, Ottawa, Ionia, Newaygo, Oceana, Lake, Mason, Allegan, Van Buren counties, and now Barry County.
“We are honored to continue the legacy of Mercy Ambulance in this community,” said Mark Meijer, President of Life EMS Ambulance. “We recognize the dedication and care that Mercy Ambulance staff has provided the community over the years and welcome them to the Life EMS family. We are committed to maintaining that standard of excellence while also expanding the resources and services available to the local Barry County area.”
Mark Jordan, Hastings/Birch Fire Association Chief added, “This partnership represents a significant opportunity for our community. Life EMS Ambulance has an established reputation for high-quality service, and we are confident that their expanded presence will enhance emergency medical care in Barry County. We look forward to a seamless transition and a partnership around a continued commitment to the health and safety of our residents.”
Brad Carpenter, Supervisor of Carlton Township and current Chair of the Hastings/Birch Fire Association, remarked, “The expansion of Life EMS into Barry County is a tremendous asset to our township and surrounding areas. We value the dedication Life EMS has shown to maintaining local care while bringing in additional resources and staff. Their investment in our community ensures that we will continue to have access to the highest level of emergency medical services.”
