The future of a McAlester ambulance service

(McAlester-AP) -- Emergency medical care in rural areas could be limited if an ambulance service in McAlester shuts down. <br><br>Para Med Incorporated operates several ambulances out of McAlester and

Monday, November 24th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(McAlester-AP) -- Emergency medical care in rural areas could be limited if an ambulance service in McAlester shuts down.

Para Med Incorporated operates several ambulances out of McAlester and Eufaula, covering Pittsburg and McIntosh counties.

But state officials have started the process of revoking Para Med's license, accusing the company of not following state licensing regulations.

A judge is expected to issue a ruling on the matter next month.

If a judge revokes the company's license, the only remaining ambulances are governmental. Three are operated by the city of McAlester and one by the city of Hartshorne.

McAlester Fire Chief Joe Benson says he can dispatch an ambulance outside of the city limits, but only when it's not needed in the city.