Otsego County and Bassett Healthcare Network Team Up for Better Patient Transport

A vital partnership that’s been quietly working behind the scenes just became official, and it’s a big win for healthcare in our region.

Otsego County and Bassett Healthcare Network have signed a long-term contract to formalize their relationship for inter-facility medical transport. In simple terms? Patients who need specialized care at another facility can get there faster, more reliably, and without adding cost to local taxpayers.

From Quiet Support to Formal Agreement

Otsego County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has long played a critical role in helping Bassett Healthcare Network transport patients between facilities when more advanced or specialized care is needed. Now, with a formal agreement in place, this essential service becomes more streamlined and dependable for everyone involved.

Who Pays? Not the Taxpayers

While the thought of a new government contract might bring questions about funding, this partnership comes with peace of mind: there is no cost to Otsego County taxpayers. Bassett Healthcare Network covers all inter-facility transport costs, which are later reimbursed through patient billing. The County provides the transport; Bassett handles the bill.

A ‘Win-Win’ with the Biggest Win Going to Patients

Edwin Frazier, Jr., Chair of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, highlighted that the true beneficiaries of the agreement are the patients, residents, and visitors who now have more reliable access to the care they need. He also acknowledged the vital role of EMS providers in making the partnership successful.

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Helping EMS Help the Community

This partnership does more than help patients get to the right hospital, it frees up time for emergency medical crews. Dan Wilbur, Chair of the Public Safety and Legal Affairs Committee, explained how the agreement reduces time spent by EMS crews waiting in emergency rooms. That means more time back in the communities where they're needed most.

Otsego County EMS: A Growing Resource

Formed in 2021, Otsego County EMS has been a lifeline for the many volunteer EMS agencies throughout the area. With the new contract in place, they’ve been able to boost staffing levels to meet demand, something that benefits all residents, not just those transferring between hospitals.

Robert O’Brien, Director of Otsego County EMS, had high praise for the crews making it all happen: “I would be remiss if I did not mention the hard work of our EMS employees and the good work they do every day for our patients and community.”

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Looking Ahead

The contract is set to run through October 1, 2027, and both sides are hopeful this collaboration sets a foundation for even more efficient, high-quality care in the years to come.