Barrar Pleased 2018-19 Budget Helps to Keep Ambulance Companies Viable
HARRISBURG – Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware) celebrates the inclusion of a much-needed increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates for ambulance companies in the state budget bill that passed the House with strong, bipartisan support on Wednesday.
“By updating reimbursement rates, ambulance companies receive fairer financial support, which they desperately need,” Barrar said. “It’s an important first step in making sure ambulance companies can continue to provide valuable medical care.”
Under
House Bill 2121, an additional $4 million in state funds and approximately $8 million in federal matching funds would be used to support Medicaid reimbursement increases outlined in Rep. Martin Causer’s (R-Turtlepoint) House Bill 699. Specifically, reimbursements for Advanced Life Support services would be increased from $200 to not less than $300, and Basic Life Support services would be increased from $120 to $180. The rate increase would be effective Jan. 1, 2019.
The budget would also include a $5.7 million increase in funding for veterans’ homes.
“It’s a privilege to care for the men and women who defended our country, and we must never forget that,” Barrar added.
The budget would spend $32.7 billion, which is an increase of just 1.7 percent over the current budget, without tax increases or borrowing.
Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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