Bonner County officials discuss ambulance service rate adjustments due to rising call volume

During a recent government meeting in Bonner County, Idaho, officials discussed proposed increases to emergency medical services (EMS) fees, highlighting the need for adjustments in response to rising call volumes and operational costs. The meeting, held on April 9, 2025, focused on the financial challenges faced by the EMS department and the implications for local residents.

One of the primary concerns raised was the significant increase in call volume, which has surged by 20% since 2020. This rise is attributed to changes in healthcare usage patterns during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, where more individuals began relying on EMS for non-emergency situations. As the population swells during the summer months due to tourism, officials noted that the demand for EMS services is expected to continue growing, necessitating additional personnel and resources.

To address these challenges, the proposed fee increases include a 15% hike across various categories, with some non-resident fees seeing even steeper rises. For instance, the non-resident advanced life support (ALS) base rate is set to increase from $1,200 to $1,407. This adjustment aims to better align the costs of providing emergency services with the actual expenses incurred by the department.

Concerns were raised by community members regarding the rationale behind the proposed increases, particularly in light of rising costs in other sectors, such as food and gas. Some attendees questioned whether the projected revenue increase of only 10% from the fee hikes would adequately cover the anticipated operational costs, which have also risen significantly post-COVID.

The discussion also touched on the need for better data analysis to support the proposed fee structure. Officials acknowledged that while the billing agency provided conservative estimates, a more thorough review of the financial impact of the fee increases would be necessary in the coming year. This would help ensure that the EMS department can sustain its operations while meeting the needs of the community.

In conclusion, the proposed EMS fee increases reflect a proactive approach to managing rising demand and operational costs in Bonner County. As the community continues to grow and evolve, these adjustments aim to ensure that residents have access to reliable emergency services while addressing the financial realities faced by the EMS department. Further discussions and analyses will be crucial in determining the long-term sustainability of these changes.