For years, Virginia Beach has been the rare city that does not charge for emergency medical services. That means no bills from the city-run ambulance service, for example.
On Tuesday, however, the city council voted to start the process of introducing a compassionate billing structure for EMS.
“In many ways this has been money left on the table here in Virginia Beach,” EMS Chief Jason Stroud said in a presentation to council last month.
Tuesday’s resolution enables the city to make administrative preparations for a billing program before formally adopting it in the spring as part of the next city budget.
A study commissioned by the Council of Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squads, or the Rescue Council, found billing for EMS would net roughly $14.5 million next year — more than half of the current budget.
Tuesday’s resolution to begin administrative preparation means the city will draft a memorandum of understanding outlining governance and terms with the Rescue Council; incorporate compassionate EMS billing into the budget proposal; and create ordinances, fee schedules and policies for the program.
Right now, EMS is funded by the city and donations. In 2024, its budget was about $25 million. Rescue Council expenses have gone up recently — more than 40% in the last three years, according to Stroud — but fundraising hasn’t increased at the same rate.
In light of the study’s findings, the Rescue Council voted unanimously to ask the city to adopt compassionate billing for EMS.
Councilmember Barbara Henley raised concerns last month that charging for EMS or ambulance rides would deter people from dialing 911.
“I’m afraid this is going to cause some people to not call for help when they should, because they are afraid of having to pay this bill, which is pretty substantial,” Henley said.
Ambulance rides in the region range from about $425 to $975, depending on the type of care needed, according to the Rescue Council’s study.
Stroud said EMS billing programs in other cities have not reduced call volume.
Virginia Beach EMS wouldn’t deny service to patients, regardless of their ability to pay, Stroud told council last month.
The city may also opt to waive any copays, deductible fees or fees not covered by insurance for Virginia Beach residents. Uninsured patients can apply for their fees to be waived.
Council could also adopt a policy to write off outstanding debt and never pursue collections.
Billing revenue might go toward new and replacement ambulances, operating supplies and equipment, according to the Rescue Council.
