AL HB595

Establishes a grant program administered by the Alabama Department of Public Health to fund rural EMS providers for vehicles, equipment, training, insurance, fuel, and administrative costs, with priority given to areas with service gaps or high per-capita coverage needs.

Creates workforce development initiatives including need-based scholarships for rural EMT and paramedic students, tuition support for current volunteers, and high school EMS exposure and dual enrollment programs.

Authorizes up to 10 community paramedicine pilot programs allowing EMS agencies to provide non-emergency services such as post-discharge follow-up visits, chronic care monitoring, and preventative education, each requiring partnership with a primary care provider.

Requires Alabama Medicaid Agency to reimburse EMS agencies for approved non-emergency community paramedicine services and directs the department to develop regulations and billing codes.

Mandates a statewide EMS needs assessment every two years to identify rural coverage gaps, staffing shortages, infrastructure needs, and response time metrics, with reports submitted to the Legislature; effective October 1, 2026.