Agenda - 04-01-1996 - X-B - Laserfiche WebLink

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6 service model is estimated to cost approximately $1 . 8 million in 1996- 97 . In developing our estimates of additional revenue needed to run the redesigned EMS system in 1996-97, we have been very conservative in our assumptions on both the revenue and expense sides . If all of our "worst case assumptions" proved true, the County could fall approximately $300, 000 short of the goal of no increase in County funding to implement the proposed redesigned EMS delivery model . That figure should be tempered by the point that if the County were not to significantly change the current basic service delivery model in 1996- 97, it could cost at least $150, 000 more than the current $850, 000 County allocation to fund the same level of service . We are reasonably confident that in 1996-97, the goal of limiting additional County general funds for the system can be realized. Some of the "worst case" scenario assumptions we have built in at this time include : 1) all hours of squad coverage are budgeted as if they would have to be provided by squad paid staff (i .e. no volunteer hours) ; 2) only. a 30% collection rate on EMS bills; 3) only an 8% participation rate for memberships; and 4) purchase of all 4 new IRVs in 1996-97 to replace the vehicles used during the QRV pilot project from August 1995 through February 1996 . The proposed fee schedule is comparable to those in surrounding jurisdictions we examined (Alamance, Durham, Guilford, Wake) . For response and assessment only, there would be no charge. When a response leads to treatment at the scene only, there would be a $100 charge. When both treatment and Basic Life support ambulance transport are required, the total charge would be $250 . When both treatment and Advanced Life Support ambulance transport are required, the total charge would be $350 . We should note that following the EMS Advisory Council discussions, the information discussed above under this subsection will almost certainly need to be revised. The fees cited above were based on a scenario where there would be a fee for service and membership fee program. If the Board of Commissioners decides to pursue a special district tax, or some other model, staff will develop new cost estimates and revise revenue projections to be brought back to the Board for final approval in May. RECOMMENDATIONS Following are the specific recommendations of the EMS Advisory Council to the Orange County Board of Commissioners : 1) That the Board of Commissioners provide conceptual approval of the EMS service delivery model described above. 2) That the Board of Commissioners give conceptual approval to a financing mechanism based on either Option 1, Option 2, Option 3 , or some combination of both; furthermore, that the Board identify any other potential revenue sources it may want the Resources Subcommittee to explore prior to giving final approval to the financing mechanism to