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House approves SB 269 to raise ambulance reimbursement rates, add reimbursement for treatment in place
Summary
Lawmakers passed SB 269 to boost reimbursement for ambulance services (in‑network minimum at 200% of the Medicare ambulance fee schedule) and to reimburse 'treatment in place' even when patients are not transported. Sponsors said the measure targets rural EMS sustainability and includes a three‑year sunset and data collection by ADPH.
The House passed SB 269, a measure its sponsor said is aimed at addressing a rural EMS crisis by increasing minimum reimbursement rates for ambulance calls and recognizing payment for treatment provided without transport.
Chairman Oliver told the chamber the bill sets a minimum in‑network reimbursement of 200 percent of the Medicare ambulance fee schedule (and 180 percent out‑of‑network), and creates reimbursement for ‘treat‑in‑place’ responses where transport is not necessary. "Alabama faces a crisis in delivery of emergency services and this bill is designed to provide base level reimbursements that will continue the essential service," he said.
Supporters representing rural districts said higher reimbursements and reimbursements for treatment in place would help volunteer and small county providers remain solvent and expand services. Questions focused on how rates would be set, who would collect and audit the data (ADPH with a university contractor), and whether the change would create budget pressures. The bill includes a three‑year sunset to allow review. The House recorded 91 yeas and 3 nays in final passage of the amended bill.
Next steps: Implementation will require ADPH to collect data, and the legislature retained ability to reassess at the sunset review.
