Non-emergency air ambulance escorts to local hospitals can result in tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected health care bills for employees, putting employers in a difficult position.

House Bill 5217 (Representative Joseph Bellino, R-Monroe), House Bill 5218 (Representative Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte) and House Bill 5219 (Representative Beau Matthew LaFave, R-Iron Mountain), were passed by the Senate Committee on Insurance on Thursday, 6/7/18, and would ensure that non-emergency patients are provided cost and benefit information prior to transportation.

“Air-based medical transportation often results in costs which far exceed available heath care coverage options,” said Delaney McKinley, MMA senior director of government affairs and membership. “While the health and well-being of an employee is of primary importance to manufacturers, something should be done to give patients in non-emergency situations the ability to make informed decisions about their care.”

The bills also include requirements for the use of motor vehicle transportation as a primary transport option unless aircraft transportation is medically necessary for the patient. The legislation does not apply to emergency situations. The bills now move to the full Senate for a final vote.

This article originally appeared in the 6/11/18 issue of MFG Voice.

Contact Delaney McKinley

Senior Director of Government Affairs and Membership
Call 517-487-8530
E-mail mckinley@mimfg.org