Emplify Health by Gundersen to acquire Sparta Area Ambulance Service

Emplify Health by Gundersen to acquire Sparta Area Ambulance Service

Gundersen Health System Ambulance, a wholly owned, non-profit subsidiary of Emplify Health by Gundersen, has signed a definitive asset and real estate agreement to acquire Sparta Area Ambulance Service (SAAS). The privately owned company provides EMS and ambulance services to the city of Sparta, as well as 14 surrounding municipalities.

Robert and Linda Hess purchased SAAS from the city of Sparta in 1973 and have operated it for the past 52 years; however, they have recently expressed the desire to retire, and, thus, decided to exit the business.

"After 52 years, Linda and I have decided to retire," Robert Hess said. "The community has supported us for 52 years; we want to be sure the quality service continues with who takes over for us."

The two organizations have worked together for many years, Hess said, and have built a wonderful working relationship. Michelle (Hess) Rademan, SAAS President, added that the service has grown over the years, to the point that it's beyond what a family can feasibly operate.

For Gundersen Ambulance, an expansion into Monroe County - where GundersenAIR already has an established helicopter base at the airport - made sense as it looks to continue the legacy of high-quality care the Hess' have established and increase its emphasis on rural healthcare.

"As Director of EMS for Emplify Health by Gundersen, I'm excited to expand our services into Monroe County with the acquisition of Sparta Area Ambulance Service," says Tom Tornstrom. "Building on GundersenAIR's helicopter base in Sparta and our critical care ambulance in Tomah, we're committed to continuing the Hess family's legacy of exceptional rural emergency care. We look forward to continuing to support the dedicated SAAS team and providing seamless, high-quality EMS to the community."

It's the intention of Gundersen Ambulance to retain all 36 SAAS employees who meet the Emplify Health by Gundersen hiring criteria. Transition of services is expected to be seamless, and Gundersen Ambulance will honor SAAS's commitment to covering the same service area.