ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — In the spring of 2023, Tompkins County launched a pilot rapid response EMS program to fill coverage gaps in rural parts of the county, where response times were slow.

The program was funded by grants, which runs out on Dec. 31. Funding was set aside to keep it going in the county’s 2026 budget.

“We average roughly around 100 calls a month,” EMS program manager Joe Milliman tells 607 News Now. “Right now, we’re on track to respond to 1,400 calls this year.”

With funding secured for 2026, Milliman also said no changes are expected to the program next year. He’s hoping to eventually increase coverage to 24/7 over time.

“Right now, we still operate Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.,” Milliman said. He manages a team of 9 full-time, part-time, and per diem responders who work in groups of 3.

FULL INTERVIEW: Tompkins County EMS program manager Joe Milliman on Ithaca’s Morning News