December 10, 2024
Priority Ambulance has been awarded the contract to provide 911 ambulance services in Benton County, Mississippi, beginning January 1, 2025. Operating under the Baptist Ambulance brand, Priority Ambulance will deliver emergency medical care to the county’s residents and visitors.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, Baptist Ambulance will station a 24/7 Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance and a dedicated crew in Benton County. This initiative reinforces Priority Ambulance’s commitment to delivering accessible, lifesaving care in rural communities while maintaining strong connections to metropolitan areas.
“Benton County’s rural landscape and proximity to such major cities as Tupelo, Oxford, and Memphis provide an important opportunity to extend critical emergency medical services to this area,” said Tony Anteau, Mid States Regional President for Priority Ambulance. “We are honored to bring our expertise and resources to Benton County, providing exceptional care when it matters most.”
Priority Ambulance began providing services in Mississippi under the Baptist Ambulance brand in 2017. Baptist Ambulance supports many Baptist Memorial hospitals offering seamless emergency and interfacility transport solutions to ensure continuity of care for patients throughout the region.
“Expanding Baptist Ambulance services to Benton County aligns with our commitment of providing quality health care to those who need it,” said James Grantham, VP of Mississippi Operations for Baptist Memorial Health Care. “Time is of the essence in emergency medical situations and having access to quality emergency transportation can be critical for acute injuries, illnesses and accidents and help save lives.”
Benton County spans approximately 410 square miles in northern Mississippi and encompasses the cities of Ashland, Hickory Flat, and Snow Lake Shores. The new ambulance service will significantly improve emergency medical response capabilities in the area.