The Quincy Herald-Whig has an article entitled Report shows funding vital to continue emergency medical services
A report from an Illinois task force says emergency medical services funding is vital to continue providing services, especially in rural areas.
The chairmen of the House Task Force on EMS Funding, Reps. Lisa Dugan, D-Bradley, and Don Moffitt, R-Galesburg, recommended that $40 million from gaming revenues be dedicated to EMS services, including grants for equipment purchases, 911 call centers, training and the interest-free loan program administered by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal to buy ambulances.
Other revenue generating ideas were a $1 license plate fee or a $2.50 fee for each tire sold in the state. A total on what is needed to maintain services statewide was not provided.
Even with many EMS providers struggling, there is no clear-cut solution. The task force met in Quincy in November 2011 to hear from local health care and EMS officials. Seventeen hearings in all were held statewide before the report was issued.
“It opened up the eyes for not only the legislators, but also those throughout the community in understanding the different needs among EMS agencies,” said Paul Davis, director of the Adams County Ambulance Service. “The needs throughout the state vary, especially in the rural areas where funding is crucial to keep the ambulances open.”
State Rep. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, who served on the task force, said legislators could look at addressing EMS funding, but it is difficult with the condition of the state’s finances.
The entire article is HERE.
thanks Dennis
