This bill aims to enhance reimbursement rates for emergency medical services provided by ground ambulance service providers under the Wyoming Medical Assistance and Services Act. Specifically, it stipulates that from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028, these services will be reimbursed at 100% of the current Medicare rate, not exceeding the provider's usual and customary billed charges. Additionally, the Department of Health is required to report to the joint appropriations committee and the joint labor, health, and social services interim committee by October 31, 2027, detailing the costs associated with this increased reimbursement rate and offering recommendations for potential modifications.
To support this initiative, the bill appropriates a total of $2.6 million—$1.3 million from the general fund and $1.3 million from federal funds—to the Department of Health for the specified period. This funding is strictly designated for increasing the reimbursement rate and cannot be used for any other purpose. Any unspent funds will revert as per the law by June 30, 2028. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.