Bill > S0794

This bill authorizes emergency medical service (EMS) agencies to transport individuals to alternative facilities for treatment and allows licensed mental health providers to treat patients within the community, starting January 1, 2026. The bill establishes a mobile integrated healthcare/community paramedicine program that enables EMS practitioners to assess patients and divert non-emergency calls from emergency departments by transporting them to alternative facilities such as primary care providers, community health clinics, urgent care facilities, emergency room diversion facilities, or community-based behavioral health facilities. The bill requires health insurance plans to provide coverage and reimbursement for these alternative transports and treatments at the same rate as traditional emergency department transports. Additionally, the legislation permits licensed mental health and substance use disorder providers to accompany EMS teams and evaluate and treat patients in community settings. The Department of Health will administer the program, develop necessary regulations, and collaborate with the ambulance service coordinating advisory board to implement these new healthcare service options. The goal is to provide more flexible and appropriate medical care by allowing EMS practitioners to direct patients to the most suitable care setting based on their specific medical needs.

Health and Social Services

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