MCHD EMS Navigates Growth, Demand, Response Times

**Montgomery County EMS Navigates Growing Pains as Response Times Face Pressure Amid Soaring Population**

**CONROE, TX –** The Montgomery County Hospital District (MCHD) EMS is grappling with a significant surge in demand, leading to increased strain on ambulance response times across the rapidly expanding county. Officials presented concerning data at their June 24th board meeting, highlighting an uptick in “Code 3” (lights and sirens) response times for critical, life-threatening emergencies, particularly when comparing the first quarter of 2024 against the same period in 2023.

While the target for these priority calls remains under 9 minutes, Q1 2024 saw average Code 3 response times tick up to 9 minutes and 15 seconds across the county, compared to 8 minutes and 45 seconds in Q1 2023. These averages, while fluctuating, have shown moments exceeding the benchmark in various, particularly fast-growing, areas.

The primary driver behind these challenges is Montgomery County’s explosive population growth. The county, now estimated to be home to over 650,000 residents, has seen its population soar by over 20% since the 2020 U.S. Census recorded approximately 590,000 people. This demographic boom has directly translated into a dramatic increase in emergency calls, with MCHD now responding to well over 70,000 calls annually—a nearly 15% year-over-year increase in overall call volume.

“This growth is a testament to Montgomery County’s vibrancy and appeal, but it also presents a critical challenge for our emergency services,” stated MCHD Chief James Harris during the board discussion. “We are experiencing a volume of calls unlike anything we’ve seen before, necessitating continuous adaptation and significant investment to maintain the high standard of care residents expect, especially in rapidly expanding communities like Conroe, The Woodlands, and Magnolia.”

Further compounding the issue are staffing shortages within the paramedic ranks, currently estimated at 20% below full strength. In response, MCHD launched an aggressive recruitment campaign in January 2024, aiming to hire 40 new paramedics and EMTs by the end of the fiscal year to bolster its frontline teams.

To enhance operational capabilities and improve coverage, MCHD has taken several proactive steps. A brand new Station 31 in Splendora officially opened its doors on May 15th, significantly improving response capabilities in the northeastern part of the county. Additionally, the district recently approved a substantial $5 million allocation for the acquisition of six new ambulances and advanced medical equipment, all expected to be in service by late fall.

MCHD Board Chairperson Eleanor Vance emphasized the board’s unwavering commitment to public safety. “Our commitment to the safety of Montgomery County residents is paramount,” Vance said. “We understand the pressures rapid growth places on our infrastructure and personnel. The board remains dedicated to ongoing strategic planning, and we anticipate further proposals for facility expansions and staffing incentives in the upcoming budget cycle to ensure our EMS can meet the demands of a thriving county.”

Residents can find more information about MCHD’s operations and initiatives by visiting their official website at mchd-tx.org. As Montgomery County continues its rapid expansion, MCHD EMS officials assure the community that they are actively working to evolve their services to keep pace with the needs of its growing population.