Malcolm Glick, an Army Veteran, was transported by air ambulance after a life-threatening fall in his home. His story is not unique. Veterans, seniors and rural Americans across the country owe their lives to the dedication of health care workers, pilots, and emergency responders on the front lines.
That’s why Malcolm and countless other Veterans are grateful that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is reconsidering its proposed cuts to air ambulance services.
Background
In February 2020, the VA proposed cutting the reimbursement rate for air ambulance services to match the outdated Medicare rate. However, Medicare hasn’t updated its rate in over 20, and it covers less than half the cost of air medical transport.
Thanks to collaboration with Veterans Service Organizations and bipartisan efforts in Congress, the VA has delayed these proposed cuts until 2029. This crucial step gives us time to develop a long-term solution that safeguards access to life-saving emergency care for millions of Americans.
What’s Next?
Despite the decision to delay cuts, the VA Emergency Transportation Access Act - and its data-based approach to updated reimbursement rates - remains the best solution to the problem. We urge Congress to consider this legislation to preserve access to these lifesaving services.