ROCKFORD A small group of Rockford residents dubbed super users by Rockford Fire Department officials are calling for ambulances a jaw-dropping number of times per year tying up emergency personnel and equipment on a daily basis.
The top 15 users of Rockford ambulances dialed 911 to request emergency medical transport to hospitals a combined 550 times last year. One person alone called for an ambulance 82 times in 2009. That was the most anyone called an ambulance last year. Three people called for an ambulance more than 50 times each.
Rockford Fire Chief Derek Bergsten said the Fire Department is taking a hard look at super users this year. Devoting ambulances to a small group of residents on a daily basis is seen as an inefficient use of taxpayer resources. Officials also think those who are using the ambulances so frequently would be better served with social services and regular medical care.
It s a constant to try to take care of these individuals, Bergsten said. Every one of them has their own issues. Some have legitimate medical issues, but no money for nursing homes or family to help. It s just tough.
Read More, Fire Department officials take hard look at ambulance super users
