Legislation to Improve EMS Patient Transport Options Passes Senate

HARRISBURG - Legislation sponsored by Sen. Frank Farry (R-6) to give emergency medical services (EMS) providers greater flexibility in transporting patients to appropriate receiving facilities was unanimously approved by the Senate.

"This legislation removes unnecessary barriers and gives our EMS professionals more options to continue providing patients the care they need, including taking a patient having a mental health issue to a crisis center," said Farry. "By expanding authorized destinations and establishing clear reimbursement requirements, we can better support EMS agencies and the communities they serve."

Senate Bill 1403 would allow EMS agencies to transport patients who need medical assessment and treatment following an emergency to a broader range of authorized receiving facilities. These facilities could include hospitals, nonhospital drug and alcohol detoxification or rehabilitation facilities and other facilities under Pennsylvania EMS law.

"Every patient deserves timely access to care in the setting that best meets their needs," said Nicole Stallings, president and CEO of HAP. "Allowing EMS to transport individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis directly to crisis centers will help connect patients with appropriate, specialized care sooner, while improving emergency department throughout and helping hospitals deliver timely care to all patients. HAP thanks Sen. Farry for championing this important legislation."

"We are grateful for the unanimous bipartisan support of Sen. Farry's Senate Bill 1403, which expands emergency medical services options to transport patients having special needs to an alternate destination other than a hospital emergency department," said Evan N. Resnikoff, M.S. NRP chief of Newtown EMS. "Pennsylvania now joins other states such as Washington, West Virginia and New York, whereas patients in mental health crisis can be transported directly to a mental health crisis center for faster access to emergency mental health care."

The legislation would also establish reimbursement protocols for EMS agencies that provide emergency treatment and, when necessary, transport patients to an authorized receiving facility. Insurers, Medical Assistance managed care plans and Children's Health Insurance Program managed care plans would be required to pay the applicable emergency services payment.

Senate Bill 1403 now advances to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CONTACT: Nicole McGerry