The merger will be effective Jan. 1, 2025.
VMSC Emergency Medical Services will be merging with a first aid corps come the new year.
On Monday, VMSC EMS announced its merger with Burholme First Aid Corps, effective Jan. 1, 2025.
According to a news release, the merger will enhance access to advanced life support, emergency medical, and mobile health services in Philadelphia and Montgomery County.
Both VMSC and Burholme First Aid Corps have a longstanding history of delivering exceptional care and community service.
VMSC, established in 1933, has been a key provider of specialty Advanced Life Support (ALS) services to The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Jefferson Health Network in Philadelphia and a dedicated 911 emergency medical service for 11 Montgomery County municipalities.
Burholme, founded the same year, has served Philadelphia via essential EMS services and fostering local EMS education and community paramedicine programs.
This merger builds on the common values, geographic proximity, and shared missions of both organizations to create a stronger, more sustainable EMS provider for the region.
“This merger represents a powerful alignment of our organizations' strengths and values,” said Shane Wheeler, CEO of VMSC. “By bringing together our expertise, resources, and commitment to innovation, we are not only preserving but enhancing our service lines in both Montgomery County and Philadelphia. The community can rest assured that there will be no reduction in services. Instead, we are expanding our capabilities, particularly in Philadelphia, where we will build on Burholme’s proud legacy by providing increased access to Advanced Life Support services."
Through the merger, VMSC will expand its ALS and mobile health services across Philadelphia, and Burholme will leverage VMSC’s operational capabilities, clinical advancements, and robust service infrastructure.
“Joining forces with VMSC is a natural evolution for Burholme,” said Tim Hinchcliff, executive director of Burholme First Aid Corps. “Both of our organizations share a deep commitment to our communities and to the core values of service, compassion, and excellence in care. This partnership enables us to expand the impact we’ve had in Philadelphia, ensuring our community continues to receive the highest quality of care, backed by VMSC’s advanced resources and capabilities.”
About VMSC and Burholme First Aid Corps
VMSC Emergency Medical Services, established in 1933, is dedicated to providing comprehensive emergency medical care across Montgomery County, Bucks County, Philadelphia County, and Tobyhanna Army Depot, with a focus on compassionate, professional service and clinical excellence.
Burholme First Aid Corps, also founded in 1933, has a rich history of serving the Philadelphia community, emphasizing EMS education, community paramedicine, and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
For more information, please visit VMSCEMS.com and Burholme.org.
