Departments sign for new medical director

Volunteer fire departments, dispatch, and fire and EMS along with the Portales Fire Department (PFD) signed an agreement to hire Dr. Ronald Carver as their medical director.

The motion to enter into an agreement with Carver was passed on a unanimous vote by the Council at their regular meeting Tuesday.

“Medical direction is required for all EMS services,” councilor Veronica Cordova said.

Carver is an ER doctor in Lovington and has been an EMS medical director for several years across south eastern New Mexico, according to PFD Chief TJ Cathey.

“He came highly recommended by EMS Region III and other agencies that contract with him,” Cathey said.

For his services, the city and departments will pay $2,000 monthly or $24,000 annually.

“It’s a very fair cost for the services provided,” Cathey said.

The annual cost will be split between the 6 volunteer departments and the city of Portales.

Cathey told the News he would like to express his gratitude to Dr. Joel Sievers, who served as medical director.

Sievers has served as medical director for over 5 years. The News attempted to contact Sievers as to why he is leaving the position, but received no response.

“We greatly appreciate his service to our community,” Cathay said.

Cathey said he is awaiting Carver’s signature on the agreement to determine when he will start providing his services.

“He’s a great medical director that we feel will do a very good job,” Cathey said.