Cypress Creek EMS names new interim chief operating officer, critical care manager

Cypress Creek EMS officials announced the internal promotions of two employees at their June 30 board meeting, with one set to handle CCEMS’ transition of services to Harris County Emergency Services District No. 11’s newly formed EMS provider—ESD 11 Mobile Health Services—on Sept. 1.

Last September, ESD 11 commissioners voted to terminate its contract with CCEMS to provide emergency medical services for approximately 177 square miles in areas including Cypress, Tomball, Spring and Humble.

That contract was originally set to expire on Sept. 4, but CCEMS CEO Wren Nealy said both entities agreed to move that date to Sept. 1 to avoid a transition of services during Labor Day weekend.

At the meeting, Nealy announced Brian Gillman would take on the role of interim chief operating officer after having previously served as CCEMS’ business development manager. In his new capacity, Gillman will be responsible for working with ESD 11 Executive Director Doug Hooten to handle the impending transition of services to ESD 11 Mobile Health Services.

“I did not twist his arm too hard, or hard enough to cause an injury,” Nealy said.

At a June 24 ESD 11 board meeting, commissioners conditioned paying CCEMS’ June invoice, in part, on Nealy agreeing to meet with Hooten for a June 25 transition meeting. Nealy said the meeting was held and payment for CCEMS’ June invoice was received.

Moving forward, Nealy noted Gillman would continue to work with Hooten to ensure a smooth transition of services, which he said will include vehicle and asset inspection of the equipment that will be used by ESD 11 Mobile Health Services, as well as tours of facilities.

Nealy also announced at the meeting that Zach Dunlap would be taking over as CCEMS’ critical care manager after having previously served as the EMS’ training coordinator.