Government Shutdown Causing Ambulance Billing Delays

Article Summary: The Clark County Ambulance Service is experiencing delays in Medicare and Medicaid billing due to the federal government shutdown.
Ambulance Service Key Points:

• Billing for Medicare and Medicaid has been stalled by the government shutdown.

• Overall call volumes remain steady and response times are reported as good.

• The service is still seeking facilities to sign the “Payer of Last Resort” agreement.

During a committee report to the Clark County Board on Friday, Dec. 19, Chace Bramlett provided an update on the Clark County Ambulance Service, highlighting financial complications stemming from the federal government shutdown.

Bramlett reported that while call volumes have remained steady and call times are good, the shutdown has caused significant issues for billing mileage to Medicare and Medicaid. He noted that collections had been coming in regularly prior to the federal stoppage.

Chairman Rex Goble asked if Bramlett had contacted State Senator Chapin Rose regarding the issue. Bramlett replied that he had not, noting that the billing hold-up is a statewide issue.

Additionally, Bramlett told the board he is still attempting to get facilities to sign the “Payer of Last Resort” agreement.