BEDFORD — The Lawrence County Commissioners received two formal proposals for countywide ambulance service during their Tuesday morning meeting, opening bids from incumbent provider IU Health and competitor AmeriPro Health.
Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer presented both bids to the board for consideration.
Comparison of Proposed Services & Costs
The proposals outline distinct operational models and financial terms for emergency medical response across Lawrence County:
IU Health Proposal
IU Health submitted a proposed five-year contract structuring service coverage around both ground and air resources:
- Equipment & Fleet: Three ALS ambulances, two chase vehicles, and access to the IU Lifeline medical helicopter.
- Proposed Cost Breakdown:
- 2027: $450,000
- 2028: $500,000
- 2029: $530,000
- 2030: $560,000
- 2031: $590,000
- Total Five-Year Cost: $2,630,000
AmeriPro Health Proposal
AmeriPro Health, a regional emergency medical provider currently serving Orange County, Indiana, as well as the greater Louisville, Kentucky area, offered a single annual rate model:
- Equipment & Fleet: One Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance staffed with a paramedic, two Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, and one chase vehicle.
- Proposed Cost Breakdown: $1,326,578 annually ($110,548 monthly).
Next Steps
Following the presentation of both options, the county commissioners voted to take both proposals under advisement to thoroughly review the financial figures, staffing commitments, and service capabilities before taking final action.
