MONROE, CT — The volunteer emergency medical service organizations in Connecticut, already grappling with recruitment challenges, are now confronted with a grim reality of reduced financial compensation for their services, with some instances of no reimbursement at all for responding to calls and transporting patients to medical facilities. The increasing number of emergency calls, particularly attributed to the proliferation of high-density housing developments, poses an additional hurdle for these overwhelmed and short-staffed ambulance services.
Kevin Giasullo, deputy chief of the Stratford EMS, highlighted the immense workload faced by EMS agencies, emphasizing the urgent need for competitive wages and additional staffing to alleviate the strain on their personnel.
During the EMS Legislative Brunch organized by the Southwest Connecticut & Southcentral Connecticut EMS Councils at the Monroe Volunteer Emergency Medical Service’s headquarters, Giasullo expressed concerns about the imminent closure of agencies due to these challenges, underscoring the critical need for support.
The event was attended by representatives from various EMS agencies, including those from Monroe, Easton, Trumbull, Shelton, Stratford, Westport, Stamford, Hamden, Essex, Seymour, West Haven, Milford, and Bridgeport Hospital.
Monroe EMS Chief Craig Rosenberg extended gratitude to the attendees, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among different towns in addressing the issues faced by EMS organizations.
The legislative panel featured representatives from the Connecticut General Assembly, including Laura Dancho (R-Stratford), Joseph P. Gresko (D-Stratford), Anne Hughes (D-135th), Sarah Keitt (D-134th), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-133rd), Ben McGorty (R-122nd), and David Rutigliano (R-Trumbull), who engaged in discussions on pertinent matters affecting the EMS sector.
The event, organized by Leigh Goodman, president of the Southwest Connecticut EMS Council, and Bill Fitzmaurice, president of the Southcentral Connecticut EMS, aimed to facilitate dialogue on industry developments, challenges, and collaborative strategies for advancement.
Bill Schietinger, chairman of the Connecticut EMS Advisory Board, highlighted key legislative proposals impacting EMS operations, emphasizing the need for effective communication between stakeholders to ensure informed decision-making.
One of the critical issues raised was the inadequate reimbursement rates for ambulance services, with Andrew Tisdale, deputy chief of the Seymour EMS, citing substantial annual losses in reimbursement funds. Schietinger underscored the disparities in payment rates from private insurers, Medicare, and Medicaid, advocating for fair compensation to sustain EMS services.
The discussion also addressed the impact of proposed bills on EMS operations, including concerns regarding the practicality and cost-effectiveness of certain medical interventions mandated by legislation.
Efforts to secure increased Medicaid reimbursement rates and address operational challenges were recognized as crucial steps in supporting EMS providers and enhancing patient care standards. Despite the prevailing challenges, the commitment to delivering exceptional care and ensuring public safety remained a central focus for all stakeholders involved in the EMS sector.