New Hampshire bill SB 130 seeks insurance reimbursement for ambulance services

On February 13, 2025, the New Hampshire Legislature introduced Senate Bill 130-FN, aimed at addressing insurance reimbursement for ambulance services. The bill seeks to ensure that ambulance providers receive adequate compensation for their services, a critical issue as many emergency medical services (EMS) face financial challenges due to insufficient reimbursement rates from insurance companies.

The primary provisions of SB 130-FN focus on establishing clearer guidelines for insurance reimbursement processes related to ambulance services. This initiative is intended to alleviate the financial strain on EMS providers, which has been exacerbated by rising operational costs and stagnant reimbursement rates. The bill is particularly significant in light of the ongoing discussions about healthcare funding and the sustainability of emergency services in New Hampshire.

As of the latest updates, the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant has not yet completed a fiscal note for the bill, pending information from the Insurance Department and the Department of Health and Human Services. This delay highlights the complexities involved in assessing the financial implications of the proposed legislation. The departments were contacted on January 10, 2025, for necessary fiscal data, and the completed fiscal note will be forwarded to the Senate Clerk's Office once available.

Debate surrounding SB 130-FN is expected as stakeholders, including EMS providers, insurance companies, and healthcare advocates, weigh in on the potential impacts of the bill. Proponents argue that improved reimbursement rates are essential for maintaining robust emergency services, while opponents may raise concerns about the financial burden on insurance providers and the potential for increased premiums.

The implications of this bill extend beyond financial considerations; it touches on broader issues of public health and safety. Adequate funding for ambulance services is crucial for ensuring timely and effective emergency response, which can significantly affect patient outcomes.

As the legislative process unfolds, the future of SB 130-FN will depend on the responses from the relevant departments and the ensuing discussions among lawmakers. The outcome could set a precedent for how ambulance services are funded and reimbursed in New Hampshire, potentially influencing similar legislative efforts in other states.