Rural Metro

Rural Metro Corporation

Type	Private
Industry	Emergency Medical Services

Rural Metro Corporation is a private company that provides emergency medical services (EMS) and fire protection services across the United States. Founded in 1948 by Lou Witzeman, Rural Metro has grown to become a significant player in the EMS industry, offering services in both urban and rural areas.

History

Rural Metro was established in Scottsdale, Arizona by Lou Witzeman, who recognized the need for organized fire protection services in areas not covered by municipal fire departments. Initially, the company focused on providing fire protection services to rural and suburban communities. Over time, Rural Metro expanded its services to include emergency medical services, becoming one of the largest private ambulance providers in the United States.

In 2015, Rural Metro was acquired by American Medical Response, a subsidiary of Envision Healthcare. This acquisition allowed Rural Metro to expand its reach and resources, integrating with one of the largest EMS providers in the country. In 2018, American Medical Response became part of Global Medical Response, further consolidating its position in the EMS industry.

Services

Rural Metro provides a range of services, including:

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Rural Metro operates a fleet of ambulances staffed by trained paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who provide pre-hospital care and transportation to medical facilities.

• Fire Protection Services: The company offers fire protection services to communities that do not have municipal fire departments. This includes fire suppression, fire prevention, and emergency response services.

• Community Health Services: In addition to emergency response, Rural Metro engages in community health initiatives, providing education and resources to improve public health and safety.

Operations

Rural Metro operates in numerous states across the United States, serving both urban and rural communities. The company is known for its ability to provide customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of the communities it serves. This includes working with local governments and organizations to ensure effective and efficient emergency response services.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many EMS providers, Rural Metro has faced challenges related to funding, regulatory compliance, and competition. The company has also been involved in controversies regarding billing practices and service delivery, which have led to legal and regulatory scrutiny.

Also see

• Emergency Medical Services in the United States
• American Medical Response
• Global Medical Response
• Fire Department
• Paramedic