Malta, MT — Phillips County Ambulance Service (PCAS) is announcing a transition back to a volunteer-based service model, effective July 1, 2025. This decision marks a return to our roots and reflects a renewed commitment to community-driven emergency medical care in Phillips County.

Since 2023, PCAS has operated under an employee-based structure. While this model brought new insights and experiences, the realities of rural EMS—including financial sustainability and recruitment challenges—have led us to reevaluate the best way forward. After careful consideration and in consultation with county leadership, we are proud to return to a volunteer-based structure that has long been a cornerstone of our service.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Phillips County community for their incredible patience, understanding, and support throughout this transition. The strength and resilience of this community inspire us every day, and we are honored to serve you.

We also want to take a moment to sincerely thank the Phillips County community for their recent passage of the Mill Levy. Your support not only sustains our service, but it reaffirms the community’s trust in the vital work we do. This investment in local emergency medical services enables us to move forward with stability, purpose, and renewed commitment.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Phillips County Commissioners, Clerk & Recorder, and the Phillips County Attorney for their willingness to work collaboratively with us, even when we had differing perspectives. Their engagement and dedication to public service helped make this path forward possible.

Phillips County Ambulance Service remains committed to providing high-quality emergency medical care, and we are excited to rebuild our volunteer team. We invite those interested in serving their community to reach out and learn more about how to get involved.

Together, we will continue to move forward—stronger, united, and focused on the health and safety of all who call Phillips County home.

Sincerely,

Riley S. Abrahamson, NREMT

Board Member

Phillips County Ambulance Service

PO Box 289, Malta, MT 59538

406-654-2336

ambulance@phillipscounty.mt.gov

"The Phillips County Ambulance Service Board met Monday, July 15 at 8 p.m. in the library meeting room. The newly appointed board chose Garry Adams of the Malta area as its chairman. Other members are Bud Bradley representing the Loring-Whitewater area, Bernard Menge, Saco area, Dick Kalal, Zortman-Landusky area and Gordon Johnson, Dodson area. All were present for the organziational meeting with the exception of Johnson.

The board discussed future plans of the county ambulance service and is now in the process of recruiting volunteer drivers and attendants from different areas. Questionnaires are available from any member of the board for anyone who may be interested in the jobs.

Specifications for the new ambulance to be purchased were discussed and those for the outlying districts. A price schedule was reviewed and tentatively decided on." - Phillips County News Archives, 1968