Okmulgee County’s sole emergency medical provider, Emergency Medical Service, A Trust (EMSAT), is taking bold steps to strengthen its lifesaving mission. Established in 1974, EMSAT has delivered dedicated service across the county for more than five decades. Now, with a new ambulance and a fresh rebranding effort, the organization is signaling its commitment to growth, innovation and providing the highest level of pre-hospital care for local residents.

In mid-2025, the agency received a new ambulance. The newly delivered ambulance isn’t just another vehicle on the road – it represents the beginning of a rebranding initiative designed to honor EMSAT’s history while looking ahead to the future. For many years, the service has been recognized simply as “Okmulgee County EMS.” The new design pays tribute to the service’s early days, carrying a modernized look that connects back to its origins.

“Rebranding is a new, fresh look to the great things happening within the company,” explained Chief James Nichols. “It reminds our community where we started, while showing them where we’re headed.”

Behind the new look lies an even greater development: investment in people. Nichols revealed that nine EMSAT employees are currently attending paramedic school, with expected graduation in January 2026. Another six employees have already been approved to begin training in early 2026, with graduation anticipated in 2027.

In a time when the nation is facing a shortage of paramedics, this local pipeline is seen as a critical step forward. “This is a huge win for Okmulgee County,” Nichols said. “Putting more advanced service providers on the streets allows for better pre-hospital care and lifesaving support for the citizens we serve.”

EMSAT crews respond to an average of more than 600 calls per month, a heavy workload managed by four full-time ambulances operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Our crews work 48-hour shifts to provide aroundthe- clock care,” Nichols said. “They cover countless miles across the county, transporting patients to both local and out-of-town hospitals. Often, they never know the outcome of the patients they helped – but they do it with pride and professionalism.”

Despite the strain, Nichols praised the dedication of his staff. “These men and women do a phenomenal job,” he said. “We’re constantly working to improve response times, pre-hospital care and outcomes for the citizens we serve.”