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The Fire Department of New York is planning significant increases in ambulance fees starting July 1. A basic life support ambulance ride will rise from $1,385 to nearly $1,800, while "treatment in place" services will jump from $630 to $896. These hikes come amid a fiscal crisis in New York City, where all city departments, including the FDNY, are required to make budget cuts.
Queens Councilwoman Joann Ariola attributes the fee increases to Mayor Zohran Mamdani's directive for budget reductions. Meanwhile, EMS Union President Oren Barzilay points to staffing shortages caused by inadequate pay and a lack of contracts for EMS personnel as the real issue. Barzilay argues that the situation "endangers the people of the city of New York."
The FDNY explained that the proposed fee hikes are necessary to cover rising costs and reduce the financial burden on city taxpayers. According to a statement, the rates reflect increased personal service costs and aim to offset the city's expenses in providing emergency services. The labor contract for EMS workers has expired, and new raises are anticipated, adding to the financial pressures.
The proposed increases also affect advanced life support services, with Level 1 fees rising from $1,680 to $2,196 and Level 2 fees increasing from $1,692 to $2,012. The charge per mile for hospital transport remains at $20, while administering oxygen costs $66.
Union leaders, including Barzilay and Vincent Variale of the Uniformed Emergency Medical Service Officers Union, have criticized the pay disparity between EMS workers and other first responders. They highlight that many EMS workers, predominantly Black, Hispanic, and women, are leaving due to low pay, which exacerbates staffing shortages and response times.
A public hearing on the proposed fee increases is scheduled for May 15, allowing the public to express their views on the changes. The outcome of this hearing will determine the final implementation of the new rates.
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