“This [step] is critical for us to able to get the assistance we need in order to move forward,” said Cheryl Elliott, emergency services coordinator.
By approving the contract, supervisors put in place the mechanism for billing for ambulance transport. They did not, however, vote on the cost recovery program itself, which is still undefined. Elliott said she would bring to the Board policies, procedures, and resolutions to establish fees for ambulance transport in the next month or so.
Supervisors approved the contract with EMS Management & Consultants, Inc., which Elliott said is a company solely devoted to EMS billing. “They have been highly recommended” by the nearby counties such as Louisa and Greene that use the company, Elliott said, especially for their “strong” customer service.
EMS Management & Consultants will charge 4.75 percent of net collections for its services, which Elliott called a “highly competitive” rate. If issues arise, Elliott said the company will assist without charging extra.
In an assessment of Fluvanna’s ambulance patterns, EMS Management & Consultants estimated that the county would recover between $733,000 and $770,000 per year with a cost recovery program, basing its numbers upon an estimate of 2,050 transports per year plus loaded mileage, or miles driven with a patient in the ambulance. Elliott cautioned that these sorts of numbers would not be realized immediately, however, but would take time to develop.
“These guys are it,” said County Administrator Steve Nichols, who has a background in healthcare management. “I was incredibly impressed with the team, with the way they do business.”
Supervisor Don Weaver agreed, adding that he appreciated how the company “double-checks” itself.
Supervisor Bob Ullenbruch, who in the past has expressed concern over how a billing company would treat Fluvanna residents when calling to collect fees, said that he read the contract carefully. “After reading this, I agree it was a good choice, and the research that went into this is commendable,” he said.
Supervisors approved the contract 4-0, with Supervisor Mike Sheridan absent due to illness.
