Essentia Health, Southern Valley Fire and Rescue celebrate partnership to improve advanced emergency medical care

Essentia Health and Southern Valley Fire and Rescue today are celebrating a milestone that expands emergency medical care for the growing communities the fire department serves. Essentia Health recently contributed $40,000 to support the fire department’s purchase of two advanced defibrillator and cardiac monitor units.

"Our crews are often the first on scene for medical emergencies, and those first minutes matter," said Southern Valley Fire and Rescue Chief Chris Mahoney. "This partnership with Essentia Health has helped us build the structure and capabilities needed to deliver more advanced care prior to ambulance transport arrival. This will allow patients to potentially receive life-saving interventions without delay and support better patient outcomes."

For over two years, Essentia Health has provided medical director services to Southern Valley Fire and Rescue, helping establish the medical oversight and training required for the department's two Quick Response Units. With Essentia's recent contribution, Southern Valley Fire and Rescue can now operate its Quick Response Units at an Advanced Life Support (ALS) level rather than Basic Life Support (BLS).

"We are extremely grateful for Essentia’s partnership and support to help our department achieve this milestone," added Chief Mahoney.

Southern Valley Fire and Rescue’s call volume has increased by 33% since 2022.

The two ZOLL X-Series defibrillator and cardiac monitor units significantly enhance emergency medical capabilities for the department. These devices function as automated external defibrillators, provide real-time CPR feedback and track vital signs.

"These monitors allow our paramedics and Advanced EMTs to use their full scope of practice," explained Deputy Chief of EMS Matthew Hons. "This means residents of our district receive the right care sooner – care that can reduce pain, prevent complications and save lives."

Dr. Christopher Anderson, associate chief medical officer at Essentia Health, has served as the department’s medical director since 2023 and assisted in developing the department’s clinical care guidelines.

"We are proud to help Southern Valley Fire and Rescue not only meet the growing demand for area EMS services, but also to advance the level of care they can provide," said Dr. Anderson. "This partnership aligns with our mission to make a healthy difference in our communities, and this is a way we can help our neighboring communities receive the care they need when they need it."

Southern Valley Fire and Rescue and Essentia Health also partner on ongoing education and quality improvement. Monthly training sessions are held in collaboration with Essentia clinicians and physicians.