ANDERSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Anderson County EMS is asking for additional funding as crews face record call volume and increasing strain on emergency response resources.
The department reported 667 “Code White” events in 2025—92 more than the previous year. A Code White occurs when every advanced life support ambulance in the county is tied up at the same time.
Call volume also increased by roughly 1,000 calls over the past year.
To address the growing demand, EMS leaders are requesting up to $1.3 million in new funding. Their top priority is adding a new 12-hour ambulance in Oak Ridge.
“We have a higher call volume, so the need is there to ask for this ambulance and get it implemented,” said EMS Director Nathan Sweet.
First responders say the increase is putting noticeable pressure on crews.
“A lot more times where we just don’t have ambulances available or help available,” said Lt. Brian Rozmus, a paramedic with 15 years of experience. “It’s been more frequent than I would like.”
Rozmus said Code White situations can add stress in an already demanding job, especially when crews know backup may not be available.
The department has presented three budget options to county leaders. The largest plan—just over $9 million—includes the new ambulance and full pay raises for paramedics and advanced EMTs. A mid-level option reduces that total, while a third option includes no new funding or raises, which leaders warn could hurt operations.
Officials say pay increases are critical to retaining staff as other agencies offer higher salaries.
“When other agencies are increasing their pay, you’re going to see some staff that are going to leave,” Sweet said.
If approved, the new Oak Ridge ambulance would handle lower-acuity calls and transfers, allowing paramedic units to stay available for emergencies across the county.
The Anderson County Budget Committee is scheduled to review the proposal June 16, with a final decision expected later this summer.
