ND HB1493

Health care providers must request prior authorization from insurers before arranging air ambulance services for covered persons, with exceptions for emergency situations.

Health care providers must provide covered persons with written disclosure of out-of-network air ambulance charges and obtain signed acknowledgment before services are accessed, unless emergency circumstances prevent compliance.

Health care insurers must develop payment programs for out-of-network air ambulance bills and establish a mediation process for disputes between insurers and out-of-network air ambulance providers.

The state department of health shall provide annual financial assistance to eligible ambulance service operations during the 2021-2023 biennium based on a formula using operation run averages, median reimbursement rates, and local property tax valuations.

Ambulance service operations with average runs exceeding 700 per year are ineligible for state funding, and minimum grants are set at $60,000 or another base amount determined by the department.