VIDEO: State officials visited Altoona to address emergency medical services funding, highlighting both recent technological advancements and ongoing financial needs.
A $6 million increase for EMS funding from Gov. Shapiro’s 2026-2027 budget is leading to new technologies to improve patient care, regardless of location.
The discussions centered on the continued efforts to ensure comprehensive and high-quality EMS across the state.
The meeting aimed to underscore what has been achieved with previous funding and what state officials believe is still necessary to support emergency medical services.
This prior funding increase has enabled the adoption of advanced tools, such as specialized video intubation equipment. The new video intubation tool assists medical professionals in sending a tube down a patient’s throat to help them breathe.
This process is often challenging due to varying airway sizes and potential trauma that alters anatomy. The video scope provides a clear view of all details, making the procedure more precise.