EMS

Owen County Emergency Medical Services (OCEMS) is the Sole Provider of  911 for providing Emergent Medical Treatment and Transportation for the sick and injured in  Owen County. Because Owen County has no hospital;  OCEMS is staffed by only the best Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics, who are trained to provide care to you while being transported to a hospital.

Services We Provide

• 24/7 emergency response with advanced life support units
• Mutual aid support for Monroe County and surrounding areas
• Public health education and safety outreach
• Community CPR training
• Non-emergency medical transport (by request)

About Our Team

Director Cris Lunsford leads a staff of trained EMTs and paramedics. Having worked in Owen County EMS since 2000, Cris brings hands-on experience and a passion for community-focused service.

Our fleet includes five ambulances. Two are staffed and ready to respond around the clock, while others are available for call-in during peak needs. The department emphasizes flexible staffing and rapid response, including mutual aid to and from neighboring counties.

Funding & Operations

Owen County EMS operates on a $2.6 million annual budget (2025), funded through a combination of insurance reimbursements and county tax revenue. Budget transparency and accountability allow us to maintain up-to-date vehicles and reliable staffing. Most years, a new ambulance is purchased to keep our fleet safe and modern—critical for rural emergency response.

Safe Sleep Program

We’re committed to reducing sleep-related infant deaths through education and community outreach. The Safe Sleep Program provides training, resources, and free sleep kits for families in need.

To learn more or request a safe sleep kit, call Owen County EMS at (812) 829-4446.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We’ve put together a Frequently Asked Questions page to help explain our services, policies, and what you can expect in an emergency. From understanding the difference between EMTs and Paramedics, to what hospital diversion means, to how billing works, our FAQs provide clear answers to common concerns.

In Memory

We honor the EMS personnel and community members who have served with dedication and compassion. Their legacy continues in the lives they saved and the example they set.

Department History

Owen County EMS began in 1976 in a converted gas station in downtown Spencer. From two basic EMT vans to today’s five-ambulance fleet with advanced life support capabilities, our growth reflects nearly 50 years of community trust and investment in rural emergency care.

Employment Application

Serve your community. Save lives. Make a difference. Owen County Emergency Medical Services (OCEMS) has proudly served the people of Owen County since 1976. Our mission is simple: to protect and preserve the lives, property, and environment of our community with the highest quality of care.
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Privacy and Contact Information

We follow HIPAA-compliant policies to protect your personal health information.

Billing Information

Owen County EMS uses EMS-MC Billing company. If you have questions regarding a bill or charges please contact them at: 1-800-948-7991.