Formation of EMS Council approved

by Bill Boender

The Sublette County Rural Health Care Board met in Marbleton Monday, Feb. 27, with all members present. Director Randy Johnson updated the board regarding progress in several areas, reporting that three clinic employees in Marbleton have recently completed a medical assistant course that certifies them to perform additional procedures.

In emergency medical service items, two new hires were confirmed, with one each at Pinedale and Marbleton. The board approved setting up the Sublette County EMS Council, which will consist of eight members and gave them wider authority to manage EMS activities. Hiring procedures for volunteers and paid employees will be the same.

Regarding construction projects, no final plans have yet been presented for the new Pinedale ambulance barn but are expected to be finalized in time for an April 1 groundbreaking. The architects for the clinic projects are expected to be here on March 15 to present cost estimates to the board.

The board agreed to participate in a State of Wyoming program that will match board funds at a three-to-one rate to fund repayment of educational loans for prospective employees. Up to $30,000 per year could be utilized, improving recruitment incentives for the board.

A memorandum of understanding with Green River Computing was signed so that the proposed information technology program can begin initial set-up work.

Johnson was directed to write new letters of interest to property owners in Marbleton and to assess costs of utilizing the existing clinic property for the proposed new Marbleton Clinic.

The board agreed to move forward with negotiations with gas industry operators regarding the establishment of a combined fire and ambulance service at Sand Draw Industrial Site.

Board Chairman Jerry Jensen was authorized to commit personnel to that that project as needed.

Conversion of the Pinedale Medical Clinic from contract operation to board operation is still in negotiation with no final agreement made to date.