The citizens who exercises his rights to the fullest by casting a vote is powerful, but the citizen who casts an informed vote holds the keys to his future.

In May, some of the voters in Tyler County did not cast an informed vote in regard to the EMS Levy and the measure failed. Luckily, we get another opportunity on Nov. 2 to show the EMS that we appreciate their hard work and dedication.

What will the EMS Levy do for our community? Good question.

If passed, the levy will provide vehicles and equipment to allow emergency medical personnel to respond to our medical emergencies 24 hours a days, seven days a week.

It will provide for supplies and maintenance to keep things running. And, it will provide the citizens of Tyler County with a sense of security should they ever need EMS.

Levy money will be used to purchase and maintain the ambulances in the county and the medical equipment aboard. It will also go toward much-needed supplies and the upkeep of the squad buildings.

Money received from billing is simply not enough. With continual cuts in Medicare, Medicaid and insurance reimbursement, EMS now collects 64 cents for every dollar. This figure is projected to go lower with massive cuts in Medicare due to take effect as part of the new government healthcare initiative. These cuts threaten the survival of many squads in West Virginia, including ours.

Tyler County EMS has proposed to purchase a refurbished cardiac monitor/defibrillator at a cost of approximately $10,000 to remain in compliance with State standards.

The current front line ambulance was purchased in 2006 using levy monies and it currently has 130,000 miles. It will need to be replaced in 2010 with a projected cost of $80,000 to $100,000.

As you can see, the EMS Levy is more important now than ever before.

Imagine you are in an accident or a loved one is ill and in need of medical attention. Who will you call?

Support EMS on Nov. 2 by voting “Yes” to the Levy and secure the future of EMS?in Tyler County.