08-03-2012, 03:48 PM
The vast majority of ambulance services in this country are voluntary units (which charge for their services). Hospital based ambulances also charge for their services. Insurance companies wont pay for many transfers between hospitals. I agree that the whole healthcare 'system' (it really is not a system) is screwed up. I think the reason why costs are so high for ambulances is because they can charge whatever they want. As far as I know, there is no regulation on the amount that pre-hospital services can charge. It is the free market, American way.
The moral of the story? Only call 911 in severe emergencies. If you are well, refuse to be transported, as the costs of am ambulance run ranges from $800-$2000 (or more).
The moral of the story? Only call 911 in severe emergencies. If you are well, refuse to be transported, as the costs of am ambulance run ranges from $800-$2000 (or more).