Waldron, AR — On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, the co-owners of 1st Choice EMS were officially welcomed by the community during a meet-and-greet event hosted by Mercy Hospital in Waldron. The gathering brought together members of the community, county leaders, Mercy administrators and staff, political candidates, and the Mercy Life Line flight crew, all eager to show support for the county’s new emergency medical service provider.
This marks a major transition in Scott County’s emergency medical services, as 1st Choice Ambulance Service has officially acquired Liberty EMS. The operational change took effect Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m., with 1st Choice taking over emergency response responsibilities while continuing under the Liberty EMS name for the time being.
“It was the day of the eclipse last year when Jeff asked me if I wanted to buy an ambulance company. Immediately I said yes,” recalled Dr. Tim McClure, co-owner and medical director of 1st Choice EMS. McClure, a physician based in Pine Bluff, is currently completing the credentialing process to work occasionally at Mercy Hospital in Waldron.
His business partner, Jeff Divine, NR-P, has been working tirelessly to strengthen relationships and repair past divisions between the EMS service and the community.
Several notable guests attended Tuesday’s event, including State Representative District 52 candidate Crystal Malloy, Scott County Judge candidate John Eigsti, Scott County Sheriff Randy Shores, Scott County Emergency Management Director Janet Hopper, crew members from 1st Choice Ambulance, and the Mercy Life Line flight crew.
Mercy Hospital Administrator Kim Russell extended a warm welcome to 1st Choice EMS, expressing optimism for the partnership and the future of emergency care in Scott County.
A follow-up feature will explore the vital role Mercy Hospital Waldron plays as a rural healthcare provider and the ongoing collaboration between the hospital and emergency services.
