Controversial rules for dispatching medical helicopters to the scene of traumatic accidents were modified today, resolving for now a longstanding dispute between the state service and the private companies seeking to compete with it. The new protocols, which took effect immediately, will dispatch whichever helicopter is closest to the patient, regardless of whether the aircraft is operated by the state or a private company. It’s the latest step in a years-long shift away from rules granting the state priority in responding to all 911 calls, a system critics said left patients waiting longer for help.
“We’ve changed our protocols so the aircraft that can get to the accident the fastest is the one that is dispatched,” said David Gruber, a senior assistant commissioner at the Department of Health and Senior Services who also oversees the state air ambulance program.
The new protocols govern helicopter dispatches for 911 calls and emergency transfers between medical facilities.
The change could mean more business for private helicopter operators. But Richard Donovan, who runs Morristown-based Atlantic Ambulance Corp., said the system benefits patients the most.
“I wouldn’t support it if it was just better for me financially,” he said. “I support it because it’s better for patients.”
Private helicopters are more expensive. A flight in a state helicopter costs $1,337, thanks to taxpayer subsidies. A private helicopter flight could cost $3,500 if Medicare is footing the bill, and up to $12,000 if paid for by a private insurance provider. Read more in Star Ledger.
lets be honest here. the private companies wanted this because it means more business for them. What is best for the patient is #2 priority.
Having said that, this is a GOOD thing that will get a helicopter to a patient quicker. I recall working at an accident on the parkway and a monoc helicopter with a 6 minute ETA was told to standby so the state run “south star” could come with an 11 minute eta. Who knows what effect those extra 5 minutes had on the critical patient.
“Private helicopters are more expensive. A flight in a state helicopter costs $1,337, thanks to taxpayer subsidies.”
What!? That’s like saying that formula costs nothing because the parents pay for it. When will we learn: ‘There’s no such thing as a free lunch.’
You are right, its like Obama announcing that under his new health care legislation, people who have insurance can now get “free preventative exams”… its not free, we will pay for it through higher premiums and taxes!
when its so serious that a medivac is needed,money should not be the first thing on ones mind….this is great news,let the person live-then worry abt the bill. #1 is right,when its critical 5 minutes can make it or break it.