The Village uses a third party billing service to bill and collect fees generated by the transport of individuals to the hospital by Fire Department emergency personnel. The Village has used Andres Medical Billing, Inc. for more than a decade. Andres is familiar with our organization and its policies, works with many other agencies within our hospital system, and has a physical office located in Arlington Heights. Staff from both the Fire and Finance Departments have an excellent working relationship with Andres representatives.
Andres Medical Billing was recently acquired by EMS Management & Consultants, Inc. (EMS|MC). Effective January 1, 2024, the Village’s account with Andres will be transferred to EMS Management & Consultants, Inc. (EMS|MC). Though the corporate headquarters of EMS|MC is located out of state, the Village of Arlington Heights will continue to work with our same local staff contacts with whom we have had a positive relationship with since the inception of our ambulance billing agreement.
As our current contract extension with Andres expires on December 31st, the Fire Department considered this a prime opportunity to set a long-term contract with (EMS|MC), which would solidify the low billing fee rate that the Village currently enjoys. The Village of Arlington Heights currently pays a fee equivalent to 3.2% of the amount collected. This is the lowest known rate among surrounding communities and significantly below the industry standard of 5%. The Fire Department was provided a contract that has been reviewed by the Finance Department and the Village’s legal representatives. All finalized terms and conditions are acceptable and will provide for “business as usual” for all parties. The new contract is valid from January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2028. The contract locks in the current 3.2% fee for 4 more years.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Village Board approve a 5-year contract with EMS Management & Consultants, Inc. (EMS|MC) of Winston-Salem, North Carolina to provide ambulance billing services and authorize the execution of the necessary documents.