BILL NUMBER: S6542

SPONSOR: KAPLAN
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act relating to a review of reimbursement rates for ambulette trans-
portation

 
PURPOSE:

This legislation would require the Department of Health to undertake a
rate study for the Medicaid reimbursement of ambulletes.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1 requires an ambulette transportation rate adequacy review.
Specifically, the DOH will review the rates of reimbursements made
through the Medicaid program for ambulette transportation as it relates
to rate adequacy. These findings are to be reported to the Senate and
Assembly.

              

Section 2 is the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Present Medicaid reimbursement rates are barely adequate to cover the
operating costs of these providers. Because of these low rates, ambu-
lette providers across New York are ceasing operation. In order to
better understand how to meet the financial needs of this industry, this
rate study should be commissioned to look at Medicaid reimbursement
rates. With a fresh review of rate adequacy, change can be implemented
that will help protect this vital industry by providing appropriate
Medicaid reimbursement. Those being served deserve safe, professional
door to door transportation to attend medical appointments so they can
receive needed critical treatments such as dialysis or physical therapy,
as examples.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

None.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.