Longview City Council to approve EMS billing outsourcing with Emergicon

In the heart of Longview's city hall, council members gathered on April 10, 2025, to discuss a pivotal shift in the city's emergency medical services (EMS) billing process. The meeting, marked by a sense of urgency, centered around a proposal to outsource EMS billing to Emergicon, a Texas-based company specializing in healthcare finance.

Chief Parker opened the discussion, highlighting that Longview is one of only two cities in its peer group still managing EMS billing in-house. He emphasized that outsourcing would allow the city to focus on delivering quality prehospital care while letting experts handle the complex billing process. This transition aims to streamline operations and improve financial outcomes for the city.

Raheem Fancy from Emergicon presented the company's credentials, noting their extensive experience with over 200 agencies in Texas. He explained that the proposed changes to the fee schedule would enable Longview to capture more revenue from commercial insurance, which is crucial for the sustainability of EMS services. The adjustments would not impose new costs on residents; instead, they would ensure that only insurance companies are billed, with a resident write-off policy in place to protect those without insurance.

Council members expressed concerns about the implications for residents, particularly regarding self-pay situations. Fancy reassured them that residents would not receive bills for EMS services, as all costs would be covered through insurance claims. The discussion also touched on the potential for increased efficiency and reduced staffing needs, as the city would no longer require as many employees dedicated to billing.

As the council deliberated, some members voiced apprehension about the timing of the decision, given that the city was already two to three months behind in billing. They debated whether to approve the proposal immediately or to table it for further discussion. Ultimately, the urgency of the situation prevailed, with council members recognizing the need to act swiftly to prevent further financial losses.

The meeting concluded with a sense of cautious optimism. If approved, the partnership with Emergicon could not only enhance the efficiency of Longview's EMS billing but also alleviate the financial burden on residents, ensuring that quality emergency services remain accessible to all. As the council prepares to vote, the future of Longview's EMS operations hangs in the balance, with the potential for significant improvements on the horizon.