Ridley Township Responds to Public Health Crisis with New EMS Partnership
- continolc
- Apr 24
- 2 min read
A Message from the Ridley Township Board of Commissioners
Ridley Township, along with communities across Delaware County, is now facing a serious public health crisis. The recent closure of the Crozer Health System has created significant gaps in emergency medical care and hospital access, putting an unprecedented strain on local services and raising concerns for the safety and well-being of our residents.
In response, the Township has issued a Declaration of Disaster Emergency, which allows us to take immediate and decisive action to protect public health. This declaration enables the Township to streamline emergency operations, expedite support services, and access additional resources and funding if made available at the county, state, or federal level.
The Board of Commissioners has approached this matter with the utmost seriousness. Over the past several months, we have engaged with key stakeholders to develop a coordinated plan that ensures continued access to emergency medical services for our community.
As part of this response, Ridley Township has officially partnered with Narberth Ambulance to serve as our 911 EMS provider. Narberth will provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) services, and residents can expect the same level of high-quality care as previously delivered by Crozer Health. In addition, Woodlyn and Holmes Fire Companies will continue to provide Basic Life Support (BLS) services to the Township. This partnership guarantees:
24/7 advanced life support coverage
Rapid response times
Highly trained personnel equipped to manage complex emergencies
We appreciate the collaboration and collective support from our local emergency service leaders, who joined us at the public meeting on April 23rd:
John Byrne, Emergency Management Coordinator
Chief John Hudyma, Jr., Holmes Fire Company (Station 43) and Township Fire Company Coordinator
Joe Hudyma, Township Fire Marshal
Chief Michael Poltrock, Woodlyn Volunteer Fire Company (Station 67)
Their expertise and dedication, in collaboration with Narberth Ambulance, ensure a seamless transition and strengthen our township’s commitment to protecting every resident without interruption or compromise.
This is not a temporary fix; it is the first step in a long-term effort to strengthen emergency care and public safety for Ridley Township. We will continue to advocate, collaborate, and act in the best interest of our community, providing you with updates along the way.
Watch the April 23rd Board of Commissioners Meeting: https://youtube.com/live/x6xk67oL234
It’s inspiring to see how Ridley Township is strengthening emergency support through a new EMS partnership. Quick and compassionate response can truly change outcomes, especially during serious health crises. Reading this made me think about how critical timely care is not only in emergencies but also when planning for end-of-life needs. Understanding the kidney failure hospice timeline gives families the clarity they need to make compassionate decisions in difficult moments. At Life Choice Hospice, we believe that guiding families through this process with dignity and personalized care makes all the difference when every moment matters.
It's great to see Ridley Township taking proactive steps to address public health crises. Just as communities need emergency medical services, they also need access to mental health treatment. Addressing both physical and mental well-being can create a more holistic approach to recovery and overall health. Click here to see more about mental health.