New EMS medical director hired

By Melinda L. Lucas

Dr. Donald Phillips of Aledo was named medical director of the Shackelford County EMS after the board met in closed session Monday, June 15.

Phillips replaces Dr. Mitch Moriber of Abilene, who has served as medical director since 2010.

The new medical director visited the local EMS station earlier this month and plans to be on site frequently for a “more hands-on approach,” according to EMS director Tina Ulbrich.

Ongoing Investigation

Hospital district administrator Jera Fairley told board members that Texas Ranger Ricky Brown has  been working on the district’s criminal investigation and EMS “drug diversion” cases.

When Fairley asked for a copy of the Ranger’s report, she was told by Brown that she would need to formally request it after it had been submitted to district attorney Joe Edd Boaz’s office.

Directors authorized Fairley to talk to Boaz after he reviews the case. Board member Mike Folsom will accompany her to Boaz’s Anson office.

Early this year, Fairley reported to the board that an internal audit had revealed that some controlled drugs at the EMS station “might not have been handled according to protocol,” and she was authorized to pursue an investigation.

Little else has been said in open session about either the criminal inquiry or “drug diversion,” which are apparently being investigated as separate cases.

Other Business

•After reviewing several options for health insurance premiums for district employees, an 80-20 policy from the Texas Municipal League was approved at a cost of $585/month per employee, approximately the same amount as the current policy.

•Ulbrich was given the board’s go-ahead to pursue grant applications for the purchase of a hydraulic stretcher and an automatic chest compression system for local ambulances.

•The directors approved the purchase of a new commercial grade riding mower to maintain the district’s lot.