Major Changes On The Table For Chester's First Aid Squad: See Details

CHESTER, NJ — For 80 years, the Chester First Aid Squad has been all-volunteer, serving residents in and around the community free of charge. However, a new proposal may change that.

Chester Township has approached the first aid squad, proposing that it change its all-volunteer, municipality-funded model into a billing model. This would mean that services provided by the squad would be billed to residents’ health insurance.

Additionally, the Chester First Aid Squad would become an entirely new entity known as the Black River EMS. Not only does the fee-based remodel change the billing processes and name of the squad, but it would also change its entire operation model, officials said.

According to first aid squad officials, the remodel would limit trained drivers and EMRs from running calls, since two EMTs would be required per response. Squad members say that shift could "create staffing challenges and undermine the system that has worked so well for generations."

At a recent Chester council meeting, discussions of state-wide volunteer deficits were had. Mayor Tim Drag cited a 2024 report noting that more than 10 volunteer rescue squads across the state closed in 2023 alone, adding that "member squads or ambulance corps” in New Jersey have gone from around 400 to 275 in the last 17 years.

"As a Council, we are fully committed to working with CFAS as they begin this transition to ensure that Chester Township can continue to rely on their exceptional service well into the future," Drag said. "Councilman Joe DiPaolo will be taking the lead in coordinating with CFAS to support a smooth and successful transition."

However, the Chester First Aid Squad says its operation is not affected by the drop in volunteerism.

"We want to make one thing clear: CFAS is not in decline," a statement read. "We are a vibrant, growing, and committed team of volunteer EMTs, EMRs, and drivers who train rigorously, respond compassionately, and take immense pride in serving Chester, free of charge."

As it stands, the Chester First Aid Squad is not fully on board with the proposal; however, it is open to further discussion with the township "to find the best path forward."

"As volunteers, billing for emergency care is not part of our mission or our values. We believe our current volunteer model works well and does not need to be 'fixed,'" a statement read. "Above all, our commitment is to you, the residents of Chester, and to provide the compassionate, skilled emergency care our community has come to rely on for 80 years."

The Chester First Aid Squad provides services to both Chester Township and Borough, as well as mutual aid to Mendham Township and Borough, Washington Township, and Harding Township.