Terri Sewell introduces bill protecting ambulance access for rural areas

Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) recently joined New York representative, Claudia Tenney (NY-24), in introducing a bill to protect access to ambulance services for rural and underserved areas. 

“When medical emergencies happen, we should feel confident that our first responders have the resources they need to deliver life-saving care,” said Sewell in an announcement. “Unfortunately, inadequate Medicare reimbursement rates are putting a strain on ambulance service providers in the most vulnerable communities."

"The problem is particularly severe for rural communities like the ones I represent. This bill would adjust Medicare reimbursement practices so that vital ambulance services are available and accessible to all Americans.”

If passed the bill would reportedly provide "adequate" Medicare reimbursement for emergency service providers to help them hire and retain EMT staff and improve equipment, said the announcement.

Reps. Carol Miller (WV-01), Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Mike Carey (OH-15), Paul Tonko (NY-20), and Marie Gluesenkemp-Perez (WA-03) are co-sponsors.

"Access to emergency services is critical in rural areas across the country, including NY-24, which spans 14 counties," said Tenney. "However, lifesaving ambulance transports are often costly, placing a burden on patients and providers alike."

"The Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act will help reduce these costs while ensuring that emergency care providers can continue delivering vital medical services to rural communities nationwide."