FAQ

Welcome to our FAQ page—your go-to resource for quick answers to the most common questions about our services and support. Whether you’re curious about Communications, Classes, or Safety details, you’ll find the information you need right here.

General

What services does MCEMS provide?

We provide a range of services including emergency medical response, non-emergency medical transportation, inter-facility transfers, standby services for events, and community education programs like CPR training.

What should I do if I’m in my car and I see an ambulance, with lights and sirens on, behind me?

Pull safely to the right, and stop.

Why is the word “AMBULANCE” spelled backwards on the front of the ambulance?

Can I schedule an ambulance for a doctor's appointment?

Yes. We offer non-emergency medical transport for patients who need assistance getting to medical appointments or transfers between facilities. A doctor’s order may be required, depending on the situation and insurance coverage.

What does the “Star of Life” mean that I see on the ambulance and EMT uniforms?

The Star of Life was originally designed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The serpent and staff in the symbol portray the staff of Asclepius, an ancient Greek physician deified as the god of medicine. The staff represents medicine and healing, with the skin-shedding serpent being indicative of renewal. Each of the star’s arms has meaning as well. Detection, reporting, response, on scene care, care in transport and transfer to definitive care are integral parts of the whole.

The Star of Life is a universal symbol of emergency medical care. We place it on our ambulances, uniforms, trauma bags, and sometimes our personal vehicles. It can also be found on road maps and highway signs indicating the location of or access to qualified emergency medical care.

What do the initials “EMT” stand for?

Emergency Medical Technician

Billing Questions

Payment Options

How can I make a payment on my bill?

You have several convenient options for paying your bill:

• Pay Online – Secure payments can be made through our online payment portal using a credit card, debit card, or FSA/HSA card.
By Mail or In Person – You can mail or bring your payment to our business
office. We accept cash (in person only), checks, money orders, and cashier’s checks.

What should I do if I can’t afford to pay my bill in full?

MCEMS is a county entity audited by the state, which limits our ability to offer financial assistance. However, we do offer payment plans to help make managing your bill more affordable. Please contact our billing department to discuss setting up a payment arrangement that works for you.

Outstanding Bill

I received ambulance services from MCEMS but have not received a bill. Why?

If the patient lives in Muskogee County and received a medically necessary transport from MCEMS, they may not be responsible for any remaining out of pocket costs, even if they are uninsured or have a primary insurance that leaves a copay balance. As of April 1st, 2025, MCEMS implemented a new tax initiative specifically designed to cover outstanding MCEMS bill for Muskogee County residents. This means any portion of the bill not covered by insurance – or even the full amount if the patient is uninsured – will be taken care of through this new funding. The patient must be a resident of Muskogee County to qualify.

My bill was sent to collections. What steps should I take next?

We use an outside entity to handle all collection matters, so they would be the best point of contact moving forward. Please reach out directly to the collection agency listed in your notice—they’ll be able to provide details about your account and assist you with payment arrangements or any questions you may have.

How can I obtain a copy of my statement?

To request a copy of your statement, please contact us by phone or visit the MCEMS office in person. Our team will be glad to assist you.

Insurance

How do I provide my insurance information to MCEMS?

Call Us – You can call our office and provide your insurance details over the phone. Please have your insurance card handy when you call. 918-683-0130

Mail – You can mail a copy of the front and back of your insurance card to us. Be sure to include the patient’s full name and date of birth so we can correctly identify the account. Without this information, we may not be able to accept or apply the insurance.

Fax – You may also fax a copy of the front and back of your insurance card. Again, please include the patient’s name and date of birth, or we may not be able to process it. Fax # 844-270-3156

Why does the patient responsibility on my MCEMS bill differ from my insurance EOB?

The difference you’re seeing is likely because Muskogee County EMS is not contracted with all insurance companies. When a provider is out-of-network, your insurance may process the claim differently than it would for an in-network provider. If you have any additional questions, we’re happy to help explain your bill—just give us a call!

Why did my insurance deny coverage for my MCEMS transport?

Please review the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that was mailed to you by your insurance provider. It will explain the reason for the denial. If you have any questions after reviewing it, feel free to contact us at MCEMS—we’re happy to help clarify or
provide additional information.

Operations

When I call for an ambulance, why does the dispatcher ask so many questions?

Our goal at Muskogee County EMS is to provide a fast response time on all emergency calls. The first thing the Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) will need to know is the phone number you are calling from. This is in case you are disconnected they can call you back. Then they will want to know the location of the emergency so they can start an ambulance that way. By asking these and other pertinent questions, the EMD can provide the responding paramedics with critical information to help them prepare for proper patient care. The information you provide to the EMD helps them determine the best and most appropriate ambulance and other recourses to send to your emergency.

In addition, advancements in Emergency Medical Dispatch science have now made it safe and effective to respond to a certain number of low acuity 911 calls without red lights and sirens, or ‘cold response’. This creates the safest possible environment for the public. Modern medical dispatchers now have powerful tools and advanced training to better identify how serious the emergency is and are better equipped to instruct the caller on ways to help the patient prior to the arrival of the ambulance.

All of this hinges on good and complete information from the caller so bear with them, they really are in a position to help you. As the reporting party, you can play a crucial role in the outcome of the emergency so please stay on the line with that EMD and help them gather that critical information.

Why have I sometimes seen an ambulance, with the red lights and sirens on, go through an intersection, and then suddenly they turn off the lights and sirens, and just pull into a parking lot to turn around?

Because of the need to respond to emergencies in a rapid and efficient manner, we will quickly dispatch an ambulance. On occasion though, the person calling for the ambulance may change his or her mind, and cancel the ambulance. When the call is cancelled, the EMT’s on the ambulance will immediately turn off the lights and siren.

Why do ambulances sometimes seem to sit on scene so long before transporting the patient to the hospital?

Because of advances in pre-hospital care, some patients may benefit from additional time taken at the scene to stabilize before transport. An example may be someone having a heart attack, breathing problems, etc. Muskogee County EMS medics are in contact with the emergency room staff, and may perform many procedures and administer medications as needed, before arrival at the hospital.

Why do I occasionally see ambulances sitting on the side of the road?

Muskogee County is one of the largest counties in Oklahoma. Because of this, when one of our satellite-stationed ambulances (e.g. in Fort Gibson, Warner, Haskell or Webbers Falls) respond to a call, we frequently rotate another ambulance to that part of the county. This helps us to more rapidly respond if a second emergency call comes in from that community.

Are all EMT’s “Paramedics?”

No. The Paramedic level is at the top of the pre-hospital pyramid in Oklahoma. There are four levels recognized by the Oklahoma State Department of Health – Emergency Systems Division in Oklahoma. The First level is the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), followed by the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), next is the Advanced / Intermediate EMT (AEMT), and then the Paramedic is the highest trained level.

A long time ago medics were referred to as a Basic Paramedic, Intermediate Paramedic or Paramedic, depending on the level of training you had. Now that has been shortened to EMR, EMT, AEMT, with Paramedic the highest level.

Why do ambulances sometimes run red lights and sirens to a call, but not back to the hospital?

Advancements in the science of pre-hospital assessment and care have made it seldom necessary to rush to the hospital in the vast majority of cases. This is generally reserved for only the most time-sensitive and life-threatening conditions that cannot be stabilized “in the field”. Muskogee County EMS medics are in contact with the emergency room doctors, and may perform many procedures, and administer medications as needed, before arrival at the hospital.

In addition, many studies now show that the increased risk of the ambulance being involved in a motor vehicle accident means that running with red lights and sirens often creates more risk to the patient and the public than is gained in the very small amount of time saved.

In addition, advancements in Emergency Medical Dispatch science have now made it safe and effective to respond to a certain number of low acuity 911 calls without red lights and sirens, or ‘cold response’. Medical dispatchers also now have powerful tools and training to better identify how serious the emergency is and are better equipped to instruct the caller on ways to help the patient prior to the arrival of the ambulance.

Why can’t family members ride in the back of an ambulance?

The need for safety and patient care is a major concern for us. The limited space in the back of our ambulance, as well as the number of seatbelts, only allow for the patient and the EMT in most situations. Usually the family member will be asked to ride in the front cab of the ambulance, with the seat belt in place.

What should I do if I see an ambulance approaching with lights and sirens?

Safely pull over to the right and stop to allow the ambulance to pass. If you’re in an intersection, continue through it before pulling over. Your cooperation can save lives.

How are ambulance calls prioritized?

Calls are prioritized based on the severity of the medical emergency. Life-threatening situations (like cardiac arrest or major trauma) are treated as high-priority and dispatched immediately. Non-urgent calls are queued accordingly.

How often are ambulances inspected or maintained?

Our vehicles undergo daily safety checks and routine maintenance based on mileage and manufacturer recommendations. We also conduct regular equipment inspections to ensure everything is ready for use at all times.

Are your staff trained for mass casualty or disaster situations?

Yes. Our team receives training in disaster response, mass casualty incidents (MCI), and participates in drills with local emergency services to stay prepared for large-scale emergencies.

Training

How do I renew my EMT license in the State of Oklahoma?

Click on the link provided and it will take you to the Oklahoma State Department of Health – Emergency Systems Division’s web site for more information on renewal. www.ok.gov/health/Protective_Health/Emergency_Medical_Services/

Are there any requirements to take a BLS (CPR) class?

Generally, there are no strict prerequisites like age, education, or prior medical knowledge required to take a CPR class. Anyone can learn CPR, and it’s encouraged for all, even without prior medical training. However, specific courses might have age recommendations, and certain professions may require specific CPR certifications.

What are the requirements to enroll in an MCEMS EMT program?

Applicants must be 18 by the end of the EMT program.

Applicants must have a High school diploma or GED by the end of the EMT program.

A current background check must be done before acceptance into the EMT program can be granted. Please note that certain felonies can potentially disqualify a person from obtaining a state EMT license. The State of Oklahoma determines who can obtain a state EMT license.

Do I need to take a state refresher course to renew my EMR license?

No. The state removed the requirement of a refresher course for EMR personnel. The state only requires 16 hours of CEU’s to renew your license. More information can be found on the state EMS website at https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/licensing-inspections/emergency-systems/ems-division/ems-personnel-licensure-registration-certification.html

How do I renew my state EMT/AEMT/Paramedic license?

The Oklahoma Dept. of Health/EMS division has information anan application on their website. Click on the link below.https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/licensing-inspections/emergency-systems/ems-division/ems-personnel-licensure-registration-certification.html

How do I renew a license that has expired?

Information from National Registry and State of Oklahoma is provided at the links below. The state of Oklahoma requires EMS personnel to maintain their National Registry certification.

https://www.nremt.org/EMT/Recertification

https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/licensing-inspections/emergency-systems/ems-division/ems-personnel-licensure-registration-certification.html

Who can take a CPR class?

Anyone! CPR classes are open to people of all ages and backgrounds. You do not need to be a healthcare professional. Classes are great for parents, teachers, babysitters, lifeguards, and anyone who wants to be prepared in an emergency.

Does MCEMS provide CPR classes to the public?

Yes, Muskogee County EMS (MCEMS) offers CPR training to the public. We provide in-house CPR classes at our training facility and also travel to businesses or organizations with large groups to conduct on-site training. All classes are taught by certified instructors, and participants receive a certification upon successful completion. For scheduling or more information, please contact our business office.

How often do I need to renew my EMT or Paramedic license?

License renewal requirements vary by state, but generally:

• EMTs must renew every 2 years
• Paramedics must renew every 2 or 3 years depending on the state

Check with your state EMS agency for exact timelines.

For more information on renewal
visit www.ok.gov/health/Protective_Health/Emergency_Medical_Services

What are the requirements to enroll in an MCEMS EMT program?
  • Applicants must be 18 by the end of the EMT program.
  • Applicants must have a High school diploma or GED by the end of the EMT program.
  • A current background check must be done before acceptance into the EMT program can be granted.
  • Please note that certain felonies can potentially disqualify a person from obtaining a state EMT license. The State of Oklahoma determines who can obtain a state EMT license.

Certifications

Muskogee County EMS
200 Callahan St.
Muskogee, OK

 

(918) 683-0130

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