Cheshire County Treasurer condemns HB 316 for threatening EMS funding stability

In a tense atmosphere at the New Hampshire Senate Health and Human Services meeting, a former Cheshire County commissioner and current treasurer, who also serves as an EMT, voiced strong opposition to House Bill 316. This legislation, he argued, threatens the very foundation of emergency medical services (EMS) in the state, a concern echoed by many in the community.

The commissioner highlighted a troubling trend: poor reimbursement rates have led to the financial collapse of at least a dozen EMS providers. He recounted the dire situation in Cheshire County, where a private ambulance company was forced out of business, leaving 23 communities without emergency services. In response, the county government stepped in to fill the gap, but the ongoing financial strain remains a pressing issue.

With a pointed critique of Anthem, the state's largest health insurer, he noted that the company reported a staggering $6 billion profit in 2024. He argued that implementing realistic reimbursement rates, as suggested by Senator Prentiss, would only marginally increase subscriber costs—by about $12 a year—yet could significantly alleviate the burden on EMS providers.

The commissioner expressed frustration over the perception that taxpayers should shoulder the costs of ambulance services, suggesting that this approach is not only unfair but unsustainable. He emphasized the need for a viable solution that does not place additional financial strain on property taxpayers, who are already facing challenges.

As the meeting progressed, Justin Van Etten, board chair of Stuart's Ambulance, the largest rural EMS provider in New Hampshire, joined the discussion, underscoring the widespread concern among local officials, fire chiefs, and healthcare professionals regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.

The meeting concluded with a call for urgent action to address the reimbursement crisis, leaving attendees with a sense of urgency about the future of emergency medical services in New Hampshire. The discussions highlighted a critical juncture for EMS providers, as they navigate financial challenges while striving to ensure the safety and well-being of their communities.