All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

West Virginia rolls out new statewide EMS protocols to empower first responders

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Health (DH) has rolled out new statewide emergency medical services (EMS) protocols designed to empower first responders with faster decision-making capabilities.

Cabinet Secretary Sherri Young, DO, MBA, FAAFP, said the new protocols, which took effect on July 1, 2024, were developed by Dr. P.S. Martin, State Medical Director for the Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS), Jamie Weller, Chair of the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (EMSAC), and EMS leaders Torie Geis and Shirley Morrison.

“These leaders recognized a need and acted on it. I commend their willingness to work with us to improve the quality of care for West Virginians. This is a perfect example of where collaboration with those on the front lines helped us put a plan into action.”

DH OEMS Director Jody Ratliff explained that the new protocols address many of the modern-day challenges faced by first responders.

“The new protocols eliminate a lot of the red tape faced by EMS crews in the past and empower them to think critically on their feet. They also address many of the communication barriers faced by first responders in rural communities with limited telecommunications access.”

The initiative builds upon Governor Jim Justice’s ‘Answer the Call’ initiative, which has expanded EMS training and workforce capacity by 75 percent. Starting May 1, 2024, the introduction of “treat-in-place” protocols allows eligible patients to receive care at home, reducing emergency room congestion and ensuring ambulance availability for critical cases.

“These advancements mark a significant stride towards optimizing emergency response in our state,” Young added. “By fostering collaboration with frontline experts, we are enhancing our ability to deliver timely and efficient care when it matters most.”

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Small Business Development Center names Lyla Grandstaff as new coach serving the Buckhannon area

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has appointed Lyla Grandstaff, an experienced business consultant and educator, as the new business coach serving Buckhannon and surrounding counties.

Upshur Parish House kicks off annual backpack program to support local students

The Upshur Parish House has launched its annual Back-to-School Backpack Program, seeking donations of new school supplies and hygiene items to help local students return to class prepared and confident.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur sets ambitious goals for growth and outreach

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur unveiled an ambitious multi-year plan to grow club membership, boost outreach through digital and in-person initiatives, expand fundraising, and increase community involvement and accessibility.

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield, beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his kindness and humor, passed peacefully at home on April 5, 2025, leaving behind a devoted family and many friends.

Ella Margaret Moore

Ella Margaret Moore, a devoted Christian and active member of Reger United Methodist Church who leaves behind a large, loving family, passed away peacefully at age 91 in Buckhannon.

Post 7 to host recognize veterans Monday during Jr. Legion game, Sr. league team opens Area 2 Tournament on Tuesday

Buckhannon Post 7 will honor veterans during the Junior Legion team’s final home game Monday before the Senior League team begins Area 2 Tournament play Tuesday, following a challenging regular season.

Buckhannon City Council weighs options for spending $351,000 carryover

Buckhannon City Council will hold a special meeting July 15 to discuss how to allocate $351,000 of a $1.1 million budget carryover.

Buckhannon Sanitary Board Agenda: July 17, 2025

The Buckhannon Sanitary Board has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting on July 17, 2025.
Summer basketball

Summer league basketball wraps up week two

Week two of the Upshur County Summer Basketball League concluded with standout scoring performances and multiple games, including two forfeits by Country Roads Physical Therapy.