Rep. Glassburn Introduces Bill to Support EMS Providers and Reduce ER Overcrowding

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Chris Glassburn (D-North Olmsted) today announced the introduction of House Bill (HB) 883, which would require Medicaid to reimburse EMS providers for treatment-in-place services. This proposal would establish a new reimbursement rate for services provided by EMS that did not result in transportation to a hospital.   

“EMS responds to a wide variety of calls ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening crises," said Rep. Glassburn. “By allowing EMS professionals to be reimbursed for the care they provide on the scene, we are reducing the strain on our overcrowded emergency rooms, lowering cost for taxpayers, and ensuring that emergency resources are available for those that need them the most.”

The current system only offers reimbursement if a patient is transported to a hospital. This inadvertently incentivizes EMS providers to transport individuals to the ER even when their condition doesn’t warrant it. These occurrences are often billed as basic life support non-emergency services and are reimbursed by the Department of Medicaid at a rate of $203.75, resulting in higher medical bills and additional strain on overburdened emergency departments. Under the framework proposed in the bill, EMS technicians would be eligible for a $150 reimbursement for services rendered that do not result in further transportation to a hospital. 

HB 883 recognizes that EMS technicians provide much more than just transportation; they are a vital component of our medical system who deserve to be compensated for their expertise and the care they provide on some of the worst days of people’s lives. 

If passed, Ohio would join the growing number of states that are adopting treatment-in-place models to improve healthcare efficiency and reduce taxpayer burden. HB 883 has been referred to the House Medicaid Committee for further consideration and awaits sponsor testimony.