Starke County EMS to Bill for Non-Transport Services

 
 

Starting Jan. 1, patients who are treated by Starke County EMS but refuse transportation to the hospital will be billed for services. Several nearby counties have such a policy on the books already, and the Starke County Commissioners last week approved one. EMS officials say charging for things like lift assistance and routine checks will help cover the costs of things like fuel and medical supplies.

Patients will not be charged for third party calls to incidents like an automobile accident without injuries. They will be billed $50 if they refuse to be transported but request an ambulance for lift assistance or if they accept an evaluation. Patients who are evaluated and receive medication or other treatment by EMS personnel but refuse to be taken to the hospital will be charged $100. The charges will be outlined on a form the patient will be required to sign.