The Michigan House approved a proposed bill related to nonemergent air ambulance rides, according to a Daily Press report.
House Bill 5219, authored by Michigan Rep. Beau LaFave, R-Iron Mountain, requires air ambulance operations to give nonemergent patients notice before an air ambulance is sent, according to the report. Patients would have to sign the notice. The Daily Press reports the bill also stipulates air ambulance personnel have to talk about other methods of transportation and associated costs before an air ambulance is sent.
Mr. LaFave said in the report the legislation aims to ensure nonemergent patients are able to weigh in and are informed of the expenses prior to taking an air ambulance ride, which for these patients can potentially result in high out-of-pocket costs.
The bill must still be considered by the state Senate.
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