Merced, CA (January 7, 2025) — American Medical Response (AMR) has officially begun providing 911 ambulance services across Merced County, marking the operational rollout of a transition approved by county supervisors last fall.
The launch follows the Merced County Board of Supervisors’ October 2025 decision to award AMR a multi-year emergency medical services contract, ending the county’s longtime relationship with Riggs Ambulance Service. County officials cited ongoing concerns over ambulance response times as a key factor in selecting a new provider.
As part of the transition, AMR has deployed AMR-branded ambulances throughout the county and activated round-the-clock ambulance coverage, with units positioned in areas including Los Banos, Dos Palos, Merced, and Atwater.
County and fire officials say the updated deployment model is intended to reduce delays by placing ambulances closer to areas with higher call volume, including rural communities.
According to AMR representatives and county officials, the service launch includes over 20 ambulances equipped with modern tracking and deployment systems designed to improve ambulance positioning. Fire officials have emphasized that faster response times are critical in medical emergencies, where minutes can make the difference between life and death.
The transition also preserved much of the existing workforce. County officials previously stated that many employees from the former provider were offered positions with AMR, helping maintain continuity of service during the changeover.
The new ambulance service agreement took effect January 1, 2026, and is scheduled to run through the end of 2030. County officials have said they will continue monitoring response times and service performance as AMR settles into its role as Merced County’s primary 911 ambulance provider.
