Douglas County Bills Non-Emergency Ambulance Calls

As of June 1, Douglas County is implementing a new $100 fee for residents who receive medical treatment from Douglas County Fire/EMS but decline transport to a hospital. This policy change aims to address the increasing financial strain on emergency medical resources, particularly due to a significant number of non-emergency calls.

Last year, EMS crews responded to about 5,600 calls where patients were treated but not transported, accounting for roughly 33% of their total call volume. Officials state that ambulance transports are a primary revenue source, as insurance can be billed. When transport is refused, the department struggles to recoup costs for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies used during the response.

The fee is intended to help recover these operational costs, estimated at $336,000 annually, rather than to generate profit. The department stresses that emergency care will never be delayed or denied based on a patient's ability to pay. Several exceptions to the fee are in place, including patient assists for falls and services for individuals enrolled in the mobile integrated health program.

Douglas County officials encourage residents to call 911 for genuine emergencies. The new fee structure is designed to preserve critical emergency resources while ensuring the continued provision of essential medical care throughout the community. Telehealth referrals and visits to fire stations for basic checks remain free of charge.