DeYoung updates Northampton Supervisors on EMS

The Northampton County Board of Supervisors received an update Tuesday night on Northampton County Emergency Medical Services operations, staffing, and future needs during a presentation by EMS Director Greg DeYoung.

In 2025, Northampton County EMS responded to 3,411 calls, a slight increase from the previous year, with 2,152 resulting in hospital transports. The department met its goal of arriving within 20 minutes on 97 percent of calls, with average response times under 10 minutes. The Exmore district remained the busiest in the county, averaging about 1,500 calls per year.

DeYoung noted a decline in responses into Accomack County due to that county’s decision to staff the Painter fire station with EMS personnel, though Accomack units frequently assist in Northampton County when multiple calls occur.

Among key accomplishments in 2025, DeYoung highlighted more than $257,000 in grant funding used to purchase new EMS equipment, the implementation of a compliant pharmacy program in response to federal regulations, and the addition of a new county-funded quick response vehicle. Emergency management efforts included continued maintenance of countywide AEDs, emergency planning updates, and expanded use of a drone equipped with thermal imaging.

Looking ahead, DeYoung identified staffing, rising equipment costs, and long ambulance replacement timelines as major challenges. He also outlined potential future initiatives, including a mobile integrated healthcare program and participation in a regional whole blood transfusion program for trauma patients.