City Council announces new ambulance service rates amid EMS transition from Trinity Health

The Wilmington City Council convened on April 23, 2025, to address critical legislative matters before the commencement of the FY2026 budget hearings. The meeting began with a roll call of finance committee members, including Council members Darby, Hackett, Oliver, Bracey, Spadola, and others, ensuring a quorum was present for the discussions.

The primary agenda item was the introduction of Ordinance Number 20512, which aims to amend Chapter 10 of the city code regarding fees for ambulance and related services provided by the Wilmington Fire Department. This ordinance is particularly significant as the city prepares to take over emergency medical services (EMS) from Trinity Health, which includes the transition of medical insurance billing responsibilities.

Miss Mergler, representing the fire department, outlined the city's decision to contract with a third-party billing company, Specklen, to manage the medical insurance billing process. This decision is driven by the city's lack of expertise in this area. The anticipated cost for these services is approximately $290,000, with projected revenues of $2.5 million in the first year and an increase to $3-4 million in subsequent years as operations ramp up.

Key changes in ambulance service fees were discussed, with the basic ambulance service fee increasing from $135 to $1,000. Other fees, such as for the administration of oxygen, will also see adjustments. Notably, Specklen will not engage in collections for direct patient billing, meaning that patients without insurance or those with copays will receive two bills but will not face penalties or interest for unpaid amounts.

Council members raised questions regarding the anticipated loss ratio for billing and the percentage of residents without insurance. While specific data on uninsured residents was not available, the council expressed interest in obtaining this information to better understand potential revenue impacts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further clarify the final rates that will be billed to residents using ambulance services. The council's discussions highlighted the city's proactive approach to managing EMS services and the financial implications of the new billing structure. Further steps will be taken to finalize the ordinance and ensure a smooth transition to the new EMS framework.