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Cushing Selectmen Approve EMS Dispatch and Fee Changes Proposed by EMS Director
Summary
Cushing EMS Director Helen Damara proposed calling Warren EMS first when a Warren medic is on duty and raising fees to Medicare plus 25%; the Selectmen approved both changes 5-0-0 and discussed billing practices for uninsured residents and hardship waivers.
Cushing EMS Director Helen Damara told the Selectmen on Oct. 10 she wanted two procedural changes to reduce per‑call costs and shore up EMS revenue. First, she asked that when an on‑duty Warren medic is available, Cushing request Warren EMS rather than calling in a paramedic from Thomaston or Rockland; Damara said charging a Thomaston paramedic costs about $500 per call and Rockland about $450, while Warren would charge about $200 when it had staff on duty. Second, Damara said the accountant had recommended raising EMS fees to Medicare rates plus 25%.
Selectman Martha Marchut asked about patients without insurance. Damara said uninsured patients would be billed and unpaid accounts would be placed in an uncollectible file, and individuals could request a hardship waiver. Selectman Daniel Staples moved to implement Damara's suggestions; Selectman Laurie Haynes seconded the motion, which carried 5-0-0.
The board's approval implements a dispatch preference and a fee schedule change; the minutes record the board's expectation that standard billing practices and hardship waivers remain available for uninsured residents. The action does not record further operational detail such as effective dates or changes to mutual‑aid agreements; staff follow‑up would be required to formalize procedures.
