Question 1

What are the financial costs associated with being an ambulance service?

Accepted Answer

The largest cost is maintaining the infrastructure of readiness—being fully prepared to respond to emergencies in our community and among visitors year-round, with increased staffing during peak seasons.

Staffing accounts for roughly 85% of our annual budget, as we must ensure adequate coverage at all times. Other significant expenses include:
Medical supplies, which fluctuate in cost due to national supply and demand
Ambulance and other response vehicles purchase, maintenance, and fuel
Training and education programs to keep our team and community well-prepared
These combined costs reflect our commitment to delivering high-quality, responsive emergency care in Grand County.

Question 2

How much does GCEMS charge for services?

Accepted Answer

We understand that the cost of medical care—especially during an emergency—can be overwhelming. In Utah, ambulance service rates are regulated by the state and are updated annually. Charges are based on the level of care provided only if the patient is transported to a medical facility.

As of May 7, 2025, the allowable base transport rates are:
EMT Ground Ambulance: $1,235 per transport
Advanced EMT Ground Ambulance: $1,630 per transport
Paramedic Ground Ambulance: $2,384 per transport

Mileage charges: $42.42 per mile (or portion thereof), measured from the point of patient pick-up to the destination.

Additional surcharges may apply:
Fuel Surcharge: $0.25 per mile if fuel prices exceed $5.10/gal (diesel) or $4.25/gal (gasoline)
Off-Road Travel: $1.50 per mile for 10+ miles on unpaved roads

Services GCEMS does not bill for include:
Hiking into the backcountry to reach a patient
Responding to calls where the patient is not transported
Situations where another agency completes the transport

For more information or to discuss a specific bill, please contact our office directly at (425) 259-1301 or visit our webpage:  PAY MY BILL | Grand County EMS

Question 3

Will GCEMS take me wherever I want to go?

Accepted Answer

If where you want to go is the most appropriate receiving hospital based on your medical condition - then yes. Our goal is to ensure patients receive the best possible care as quickly as possible.  If you want to go somewhere else, then probably not.

However, patients always have the right to refuse assessment, treatment, or transport—as long as they:
Are 18 or older
Do not pose a threat to themselves or others
Have normal mental capacity to make informed decisions

In some situations, extenuating circumstances may be considered. If you have questions about a specific case, please reach out to our office.

Question 4

What level of care does GCEMS provide?

Accepted Answer

GCEMS provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) emergency care 24/7/365.

Thanks to a state-approved waiver, we are authorized to operate at the paramedic level whenever paramedic staff is available—ensuring the highest level of pre-hospital care possible in our rural setting.

Question 5

Who are the medical directors for GCEMS?

Accepted Answer

GCEMS is proud to have two highly qualified medical directors:
Dr. Angela Alexander, MD – Emergency Department Physician at Moab Regional Hospital
Dr. Deidre Flanagan, MD – General Surgeon and Trauma Director at Moab Regional Hospital
Community members with questions for our medical directors are welcome to contact us at info@grandcountyems.net or call (435) 259-1301.

Question 6

I want to work for GCEMS. What does that process look like?

Accepted Answer

We’re glad you’re interested! If we aren't currently hiring, the best first step is to submit a contact form at CAREERS | Grand County EMS. We notify everyone on that list when positions open. You’re also welcome to reach out via Facebook, Instagram, or email with questions.

GCEMS does not follow a set hiring schedule—we open positions as needed. Most new hires begin as PRN (pro re nata) employees, which requires a commitment of 48 hours of shifts and one training day per month. Full-time roles are usually offered internally first before being posted publicly.

The hiring process includes;
- Application – Submit a resume and a GCEMS-specific application for an open position.
- Testing Day in Moab for qualified applicants:
Moderate Pack Test: 2 miles in 30 minutes or less with a 25-lb weight vest
Written Exam: Based on your level of certification
Scenario Test and Interview
- Pre-employment Requirements:
Background check
Drug screening

Successful candidates will complete a week-long Boot Camp and field training before beginning regular shifts.

Question 7

What special training does GCEMS implement to rescue patients in the backcountry?

Accepted Answer

GCEMS regularly responds to backcountry emergencies, especially during the spring and fall. Our team is specially trained to handle challenging environments and remote rescues.
Key components of our backcountry response training include:
Rope rescue techniques for accessing patients in difficult terrain
Moto response and some 4x4 driving for navigating rugged trails
Collaboration with Grand County Search and Rescue, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Classic Air Medical for coordinated rescues
Select members may also train in swift water and avalanche rescue for familiarization in supporting GCSAR on medical calls
At the foundation of this work is a commitment to physical fitness. GCEMS promotes a culture of health and strength, with an on-site gym equipped with weight and cardio equipment to support staff readiness and resilience in the field.

Grand County Emergency Medical Services

FAQs for the General Public

What are the financial costs associated with being an ambulance service?

How much does GCEMS charge for services?

Will GCEMS take me wherever I want to go?

What level of care does GCEMS provide?

Who are the medical directors for GCEMS?

I want to work for GCEMS. What does that process look like?

What special training does GCEMS implement to rescue patients in the backcountry?

Grand County EMS

520 E 100 N, Moab, Utah, 84532
(435) 259-1301
info@grandcountyemsutah.gov

FAQs for the General Public

What are the financial costs associated with being an ambulance service?

How much does GCEMS charge for services?

Will GCEMS take me wherever I want to go?

What level of care does GCEMS provide?

Who are the medical directors for GCEMS?

I want to work for GCEMS. What does that process look like?

What special training does GCEMS implement to rescue patients in the backcountry?

Grand County EMS

520 E 100 N, Moab, Utah, 84532 (435) 259-1301 info@grandcountyemsutah.gov

520 E 100 N, Moab, Utah, 84532
(435) 259-1301
info@grandcountyemsutah.gov