Originally Posted by
mickjoebill
CNN report on “Sky-high prices for air ambulances hurt those they are helping”
North Dakota average patient charge per flight is US$56k.
“Balance billing” and “for profit” nature of the industry is said to be the cause of high charges to patients, even those who are insured.
20 years ago I recall filming an emergency helicopter in California where the patient, who had come off his motorcycle in the hills was adamant that he didn’t want to be transported by helicopter as he was unsure if his insurance would cover the flight. He was suffering back pain but was prepared to wait for his brother to artive to transport him in the back of his pickup truck!
So are there still cases today where a HEMs lands but patient refuses for similar reasons?
Here in Oz a $94 family/$47 individual per annum subscription covers ground and air ambulance. Each state has a not for profit “service”.
What is it with the USA and both the high cost of health care and the lack of adequate insurance?
Table of fees in Victoria.
https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/hospi...ambulance-fees
mjb
Mick
In Alberta Canada the ground ambulances are run by the provincial gov't and bill to the individual patients at about $300.00 per trip I believe ( Not sure as I haven't had to use them knocking on wood) The air ambulance Stars is ran as a non profit that gets money from the Gov't, Corporations and private individuals plus some in house fund raises that they do.
I count ourselves luck that we have these services at what sounds like bargain prices compared to what your showing.
Roybert