AGENDA DATE: 4/5/2023
TITLE:
Title
Consideration of Permit Approval for Area Private Emergency Medical Services Agencies
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Consider approval of permits for the operation of private Emergency Medical Services by two private agencies providing non-emergency medical transport services.
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Henry, Rosenberg, Farley, Eggleston, Mezzoni
PRESENTER (S): N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: Pursuant to Virginia Code § 32.1-111.14, the Board is authorized to grant permits to emergency medical services agencies (EMS agencies) to allow such agencies to provide medical services within Albemarle County. Permits for commercial EMS agencies, as distinguished from volunteer companies in the Coordinated Fire and Rescue System (Coordinated System), are not contemplated in the cost recovery framework addressed in County Code Section 6-502. A permit granted by the Board pursuant to Virginia Code § 32.1-111.14 for private EMS agencies would allow these agencies to provide services to residents of Albemarle County that are not routinely provided by ACFR and the Coordinated System. Further, a permit granted by the Board is required for these agencies in their regulatory compliance with the Virginia Department of Health Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS).
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission - To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all community members through the provision of the of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: In Fall 2022, two private EMS agencies reached out to County staff to inquire about obtaining a permit so that they might station ambulances in Albemarle County to provide non-emergency transport services in response to calls within the County. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) is non-urgent, medically supported transport that is generally pre-scheduled. NEMT services are usually intended for medical appointments or other forms of non-emergent care.
ACFR staff, upon receiving these requests, consulted with County Attorney staff to develop a permitting process that would enable commercial EMS agencies to operate in the County. Commercial EMS agencies that wish to be permitted in Albemarle County must complete the EMS Agency Permit Application.
The application process involves the following checks:
- Agency’s Virginia OEMS license is current;
- Agency certifies vehicle liability insurance through its application to OEMS; and
- Agency is in good standing with the Virginia SCC.
The following applications have been received, reviewed, and processed by ACFR for the operation of NEMT services:
- Delta Response Team
- Kiwi Emergency Medical Services
BUDGET IMPACT: Issuing permits for these agencies to provide non-emergency medical transport services will have no budget impact, as ACFR does not provide these services.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that, after the public hearing, the Board issues permits to allow Delta Response Team and Kiwi Emergency Medical Services to provide non-emergency medical transport services within the County.
ATTACHMENTS:
A - Resolution to Grant Commercial EMS Permit: Delta Response Team, L.L.C.;
B - Resolution to Grant Commercial EMS Permit: Kiwi Emergency Medical Services, L.L.C.