Support the Republican Newspaper! It’s only $9.95/year for the online edition!
Jan. 20, 2011
The leadership of the Southern and Northern Garrett County rescue squads have issued a reminder to all residents that it is time to renew the $25-$35 membership fee to the organizations. Residents who pay the annual fee can then be transported by the squad free of charge anytime throughout the year. Those who do not pay the fee will be responsible for payment.
All Garrett Countians should have received notice late last year to renew this payment. Persons are to fill out a subscription card and provide the $25 fee to be covered for the year for the Southern Garrett squad. The fee for the Northern Garrett squad is $35 per family, and $25 for senior citizens. Persons should note that Northern Garrett does not have a physical mailing address at either the Friendsville or McHenry station. Subscriptions must be mailed to the organization’s post office box. The address is Northern Garrett County Rescue Squad, PO Box 293, Grantsville, MD 21536.
According to the letter sent by the Southern squad, the non-profit organization has been in operation since 1973, and was for many years completely free. However, because of a drop in membership and time constraints for members, some are now being compensated for their work. Budget constraints and the downturn in the economy led to the payment plan.
The subscription membership plan for Southern Garrett was started on Jan. 1, 2007. Northern’s program started some years earlier. The program has allowed the rescue squads to bill all patients to cover the costs associated with emergency care, but to do it without creating a financial burden for citizens.
Persons who pay the fee are eligible for free care from either Southern or Northern Rescue Squads, as the program is reciprocal between these two organizations. However, persons are advised that it does not cover costs from other ambulance services.
For more information, residents may contact the rescue squad that serves their part of the county.
