Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Chair of the New York State Assembly Commission on Rural Resources, is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to sign the “direct pay” legislation he cosponsored into law. (A.250) The bill, which passed both the Senate and Assembly unanimously this past legislative session, will change the pay model for ambulance/EMS service providers so that they are reliably paid directly by health insurers. It will ensure ambulance/EMS service providers receive the critical resources needed to continue doing their jobs safely and effectively for patients across New York State.

"’Direct pay’ legislation is a necessary step forward for our state. It will simplify the process of reimbursing ambulance service providers and alleviate the unnecessary financial burden on patients. Assemblyman Santabarbara remains committed to making healthcare more accessible and efficient for all New Yorkers,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbra. “By signing this bill into law, Governor Hochul can ensure that our ambulance providers receive the support they need to continue their vital work without interruptions.”

“On behalf of the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN) and our over 40 members who provide vital ambulance services for the entire state, I ask Governor Kathy Hochul to sign this crucial legislation so that it becomes law. It will provide for a more efficient system in delivering the reimbursement to the providers who are entitled to it, strengthening the EMS system and ensuring better healthcare for all New Yorkers,” said Jeffrey Call, Chairperson of the United New York Ambulance Network.

“This direct pay bill is an important step in making sure Payments get to EMS providers in appropriate manner. It is also quite helpful to the patience to use the service,” said Dean Romano, Executive Director of Rotterdam Emergency Medical Services and member of the New York State Rural Ambulance Task Force. “Medical billing which includes emergency medical services can be very complicated. This bill simplifies that for patience’s and ensures that EMS providers receive payment for services provided.”