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Hibbing OKs 90-day termination notice to EMS billing company after customer-service complaints
Summary
Council approved staff request to issue a 90-day termination notice to the city's EMS billing vendor, citing reduced customer service after an acquisition.
The Hibbing City Council approved staff’s request on June 4 to issue a 90-day termination notice to the city’s emergency medical services (EMS) billing vendor, EMSMC, after staff reported declining service following the vendor’s acquisition of the prior operator.
"Between myself and the ladies in the finance department and the city administrator, we were not satisfied with what EMSMC is giving us," said Christie, speaking on behalf of the fire chief and city EMS administration. Christie asked the council to allow staff to end the existing billing contract so the city can pursue another vendor.
Staff noted the original billing arrangement began Oct. 1, 2020, with TransMedics; EMSMC purchased TransMedics in April 2023. Staff said the service quality and customer service that had existed under the original operator did not carry over after the acquisition. Councilor Hoffman moved the termination authorization; Councilor Faso seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.
The termination action authorizes staff to proceed with the contractual 90-day notice period to EMSMC so the city can seek an alternative billing provider.
