Title
Adopt a resolution to approve a written policy setting forth issues to be considered for the inclusion in any County contract for emergency ambulance services pursuant to the requirements outlined in Health and Safety Code, Division 2.5, Section 1797.230.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Adopt a resolution to approve a written policy setting forth issues to be considered for the inclusion in any County contract for emergency ambulance services pursuant to the requirements outlined in Health and Safety Code, Division 2.5, Section 1797.230.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
California Health and Safety Code, Division 2.5, Section 1797.230 requires the County Board of Supervisors to pass an ordinance or resolution adopting a policy requiring that any contract for the provision of emergency ambulance services consider the following for inclusion in the county contract:
1. Employment retention requirements for employees of the incumbent ambulance service provider,
2. Demonstrated experience serving similar population and geographic areas,
3. Diversity and equity efforts addressing the needs of vulnerable and underserved populations of the service area,
4. Financial requirements, including requiring a private ambulance service provider to show proof of insurance and bonding, and
5. A description of the emergency ambulance service provider’s public information and education activities, and community involvement.
Health and Safety Code section 1797.230 also dictates that the County’s policy require contracts for emergency ambulance services to demonstrate how they provide for the payment of comparable wages and benefits to all ambulance service employees that are generally consistent with those provided to ambulance service employees in the same geographic region; and demonstrate that the staffing levels for ambulance service employees will be comparable to the staffing levels under the County of Monterey’s previous contract for emergency ambulance services.
The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency is designated under California law by Monterey County as the local Emergency Medical Services Agency responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating the local EMS system in the County of Monterey. As such, it is the responsibility of the EMS Agency to enter into agreements for ambulance services to ensure the provision of emergency medical services care and transportation of the sick and injured.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel has reviewed and approved this Board Report as to form.
FINANCING:
There are no General Fund Impacts resulting from this Board action.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Check the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives:
☐ Economic Development:
• Through collaboration, strengthen economic development to ensure a diversified and healthy economy.
☐ Administration:
• Promote an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management and is recognized for responsiveness, strong customer orientation, accountability and transparency.
☒ Health & Human Services:
• Improve health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs, and services; promoting access to equitable opportunities for healthy choices and healthy environments in collaboration with communities.
☐ Infrastructure:
• Plan and develop a sustainable, physical infrastructure that improves the quality of life for County residents and supports economic development results.
☒ Public Safety:
• Create a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, leading businesses and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes as well as crimes in general.
Prepared by: Steve Brooks, EMS Analyst, 755-4948
Approved by:
_____________________________Date_________________
Elsa Jimenez, Director of Health Services, 755-4526
Attachments:
Resolution draft