South West Illinois News

Monroe County EMS Director Carla Heise considers it a privilege to be working for a department on which her community relies, something she has done for the past 20 years. 

“I work with a great team in the community in which I live,” Heise told Southwest Illinois News. “I like to inspire and challenge our team to be the region’s best agency at teamwork, community education and emergency health care. Strategically acting in the best interest without compromising the core values that make us Monroe County EMS.”

Heise began her career at Monroe County EMS in April 1999 and has served as EMS director since January 2003. As director, she is responsible for a variety of tasks including overseeing compliance with all standard EMS operating procedures, maintaining proper staffing levels, developing and implementing policies and procedures, and preparing and managing the budget for the department. 

Monroe County EMS Director Carla Heise

“Through the years, Monroe County EMS has provided added value to our community, provided exceptional customer service, extended courtesy to all, is dedicated to continue quality improvement in all areas, and delivers exceptional, quick, effective and professional service,” Heise said. “As EMS evolves, communities need to see that EMS is no longer just ‘the ambulance service’ but rather is a complex network of all types of professionals, all of whom serve in a broad range of roles from administrating care in an ambulance, to providing education to providing community paramedicine in this area.”

Heise’s decision to work in the EMS field came naturally.

“I have always had an interest in the medical field, helping others along with giving back to the community where I live,” Heise said. “With those things in mind, I think for the most part the EMS career in my home community found me.”

Heise holds an Ambulance Service Manager (ASM) certification, Certified Ambulance Coder (CAC) certifications and Child Passenger Seat (CPS) license. She participates on numerous committees and boards related to EMS services. She is also a member of the Monroe County Coalition for a Drug Free Community, GLOW and Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. 

Heise enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends.