This bill aims to protect those in need of emergency ambulance services by requiring health insurance carriers to directly and promptly pay ambulance service companies for emergency services rendered to a patient, even if they are not under a contractual agreement. The bill does not create an entitlement to coverage for ambulance services. However, it does also require the insured to assign their benefits to the ambulance company in order to facilitate payment, establishes payment rates equal to those established by municipalities, and authorizes municipalities to appeal to the commissioner of insurance for a municipally established ambulance rate increase that is in excess of the current Health Care Cost Benchmark.

Currently, many people opt for ride share options or are taking public transportation if they need emergency health services due to the high cost of ambulance transport. This phenomenon is due to an unaffordable health care system on top of extreme economic pressures. As a result, by the time people receive help for their health emergency, it may be too late. Ambulances are equipped with medical supplies and personnel trained to respond and act in any health care situation. By providing this protection, we can enable more people to seek the resources available to them without worrying about the financial burdens associated with seeking care.

This bill was filed last session by Senator Timilty.