Minnie Hamilton Health System (MHHS) and Roane County Emergency Squad (RCES) are pleased to announce the signing of a new collaborative agreement for ambulance transport services, effective March 1, 2026.
After thoughtful review of regional service needs and long-term sustainability, both organizations believe this partnership represents the strongest and most effective path forward. Under this agreement, Roane County Emergency Squad will provide facility-to-facility transport services for Minnie Hamilton Health System. This collaboration enhances efficiency, strengthens service stability, and supports our shared mission of delivering high-quality care to the communities we serve.
In conjunction with this agreement, Roane County Emergency Squad has also entered into a separate agreement with the Calhoun County Commission to provide 911 ambulance services for Calhoun County, also effective March 1, 2026. That agreement is distinct from the transport services agreement with Minnie Hamilton Health System.
We understand there may be questions as these changes move forward, and we want to clearly outline three important points:
1. Separate Agreements:
The 911 ambulance service agreement with the Calhoun County Commission and the transport services agreement with Minnie Hamilton Health System are separate contracts with separate funding structures.
2. Levy Funds:
Levy funds collected in Roane County and Calhoun County will remain in their respective counties and will be used strictly for operating expenses within the county in which they are collected. No levy funds from either county will be used to support Minnie Hamilton Health System’s transport services. Likewise, no levy dollars will be used to subsidize services outside of the county where those funds are generated.
3. Regional Collaboration & Mutual Aid:
While the agreements are separate, the benefit to our communities is shared. Having transport services based at Minnie Hamilton strengthens the regional EMS network. Long-standing mutual aid agreements between area EMS agencies will continue as they always have, ensuring additional support when needed. This collaboration enhances overall coverage and provides added 911 support when available—an important benefit for the citizens of both Roane and Calhoun counties.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the leadership and Board of Directors of Roane County Emergency Squad, the Board of Directors of Minnie Hamilton Health System, the Calhoun County Commission, and the Roane County Commission for their commitment to thoughtful planning and responsible stewardship of public resources. Most importantly, we thank our EMS professionals and the citizens we serve for their continued trust and support.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment among regional partners to work together across county lines for one common purpose: providing reliable, sustainable, high-quality emergency medical services close to home.
For additional information, please contact:
Makiah Ratliff
EMS Director, Roane County Emergency Squad
mratliff@roaneems.com | 304-927-3725
Stephen Whited
CEO, Minnie Hamilton Health System
stephen.whited@mhhs.healthcare | 304-354-9735
