Scott Koltenbarger, a representative of AirMedCare Network (operating as EagleMed in the region), described membership packages that cover out-of-pocket costs for patients flown by the company's aircraft and urged the county to consider group or payroll-deduction plans for employees.

Koltenbarger said AirMedCare has 11 aircraft in Kansas and that memberships -- priced as low as $75 per household per year (company discount pricing) -- would cover co-pays, deductibles and coinsurance for flights by the company. "No co pay, no deductible, no coinsurance," Koltenbarger said, describing the financial protection a membership would provide if a county resident or employee were flown.

He outlined three options: a census (slot) plan that requires a minimum of 25 employees and covers the slot while employed; a group plan where the county would purchase coverage as an employer benefit; and a payroll-deduction plan where employees enroll and pay via payroll. Koltenbarger said the payroll option can be structured so the county oes not pay upfront and that, if a covered employee leaves before paying in full, the unpaid portion is typically deducted from their final paycheck.

Commissioners and staff asked operational questions including which provider EMS would call first and how coverage applies when a competing service is closer. Koltenbarger said EMS makes the operational call and that, according to company records, AirMedCare is "usually one of the first called" and that they have both rotor and fixed-wing aircraft placed across Kansas. Commissioners said they would consult EMS, firefighters and county staff and consider the budget timing (annual renewals occur in May-June) before deciding whether to pursue a county-paid plan for 2027 benefits.

No motion or commitment was made at the meeting; commissioners requested follow-up conversations with EMS and employees.