HAMBURG, NEW YORK – To address the increasing demand for emergency medical services (EMS) and a declining number of volunteer responders, Big Tree Volunteer Fire Company (VFC) has launched Big Tree Emergency Medical Services, Inc. The new EMS division, operational since October 14, 2024, enhances service reliability and patient care in the Town of Hamburg.
Over the past decade, efforts to establish a town-wide EMS system have been ongoing. However, with call volumes surging—from 1,896 in 2022 to 2,573 in 2024—Big Tree VFC recognized the urgent need for action. The company, one of the most active fire departments in the town, relies on just 35 active members to handle over 2,500 annual calls, making it increasingly difficult for volunteers juggling full-time jobs and families.
To ensure faster, more reliable emergency response, Big Tree EMS has implemented paid staffing from 5 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 5 AM to 1 PM on weekends. This has significantly improved response times, reducing the average from nine minutes to just two minutes. Additionally, service reliability during weekday hours has jumped from 65% to 93%, with volunteer crews continuing to handle evening and overnight shifts.
A key improvement is the elevation of care to a paramedic level, the gold standard in EMS, which is not commonly provided by fire companies. As operations evolve, Big Tree EMS is assessing further expansion into evening and overnight coverage to better serve the community.
Community-Focused & Cost-Conscious Care
Big Tree EMS is committed to providing high-quality, cost-effective emergency care. 100% of funds raised go toward new equipment, paid staffing, and service improvements—without increasing taxes. Volunteers continue to handle administrative tasks and cover 40% of calls without paid staff involvement.
To ease the financial burden on residents, Big Tree EMS has implemented a zero co-pay policy for Hamburg and Blasdell residents, ensuring patients are not responsible for additional out-of-pocket costs. The system is designed to collect only from insurance or self-pay individuals, minimizing the impact on those facing medical expenses.
Big Tree VFC remains dedicated to enhancing emergency response, improving patient care, and ensuring financial responsibility while adapting to the growing needs of the community.
