Reginald James

KNOXVILLE - Priority Ambulance, the nation’s second-largest EMS provider, has announced the appointment of Reginald James as Regional President. Bringing over 40 years of comprehensive EMS leadership—from frontline clinical roles to executive management—James will spearhead Priority’s efforts to expand and standardize behavioral health transport services. His leadership is expected to enhance access to safe, timely, and appropriate care for patients and communities across the country.

Phil Koster, Chief Operating Officer of Priority Ambulance, stated, “We are excited to welcome Reginald to the Priority executive team. His extensive experience in both public and private EMS sectors, coupled with his proven ability to develop innovative care models, will accelerate our commitment to behavioral health transport. His guidance will help us deliver compassionate, consistent, and clinically excellent service nationwide.”

Throughout his distinguished career, James has served in a broad range of EMS roles, including EMT, Cardiac Technician, Paramedic, Field Training Officer, supervisor, manager, director, and executive. Most recently, he held a senior executive position at a leading EMS provider known for its pioneering Mobile Integrated Healthcare and Community Paramedicine programs.

James’s expertise encompasses designing and managing high-performing EMS systems, with strong capabilities in operations, finance, information systems, government relations, and contract negotiations involving healthcare systems, fire departments, municipalities, and county governments.

In his new role, James will oversee Priority Ambulance’s nationwide behavioral health transport program, which spans 15 states and 21 locally trusted brands, alongside existing operational infrastructures. He will focus on strengthening clinical protocols, advancing caregiver training, and enhancing operational readiness. This expansion aims to improve patient outcomes and experiences while ensuring vital support for the communities Priority serves.

This strategic appointment underscores Priority Ambulance’s steadfast dedication to patient-centered care and its proactive response to the increasing demand for specialized behavioral health transport. The company remains committed to investing in specialized teams, comprehensive training, and collaborative partnerships to ensure individuals experiencing behavioral health crises receive dignified, safe transportation with the necessary clinical support.

Priority Ambulance, a subsidiary of Priority OnDemand, is a leading healthcare solutions provider dedicated to enhancing and simplifying access to healthcare services. The company focuses on accessible, efficient, and cost-effective healthcare for patients, providers, and payors through integrated technology information, and on-demand delivery models tailored to the unique needs of each community they serve. With a team of more than 4,100 EMTs, paramedics, nurses, dispatchers, and support staff, the company serves more than 800,000 patients annually through its network of services across 15 states. For more information, visit www.priorityambulance.com.