Billing for service (2024)

Position Statement of the Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. on Compassionate Billing

The Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. unanimously supports the implementation of a compassionate billing policy, contingent upon the finalization and mutual agreement of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Rescue Council, the City of Virginia Beach, and the Virginia Beach Department of Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

We believe that compassionate billing aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible emergency medical services to the residents and visitors of Virginia Beach. Our priority has always been to serve the community with empathy, ensuring that no individual is denied essential emergency care due to financial constraints.

However, our support for this initiative is founded on the following conditions:

1. Mutual Agreement of MOU: The Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. emphasizes the importance of an MOU that has been thoroughly reviewed, discussed, and agreed upon by all relevant parties. This MOU must clearly outline the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of the Rescue Council, the City of Virginia Beach, and the Virginia Beach Department of EMS in the implementation of compassionate billing.

2. Revenue Allocation: Revenue generated through compassionate billing should be directly reinvested into the Virginia Beach volunteer rescue squads and Department of EMS operations through a special revenue fund.

3. Transparency and Accountability: The Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. advocates for clear and transparent processes in the administration of compassionate billing. This includes active involvement in the financial accountability process, with regular reporting and audits to ensure that all funds are utilized in accordance with the agreed-upon terms of the MOU.

4. Public Awareness and Education: It is crucial that the community is informed and educated about the compassionate billing policy. We encourage the City of Virginia Beach to engage in public outreach efforts to ensure that residents understand the purpose of this billing system and how it will affect them.

The Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of emergency medical services in our city. We are confident that, with careful planning and collaboration, the implementation of compassionate billing will further our mission of providing exceptional care to those in need.