Directs counties to develop and maintain comprehensive county emergency medical system plans

New York counties must plan ambulance coverage

Each New York county must develop and maintain a plan for reliable emergency medical and ambulance services for all residents. Counties must coordinate with regional emergency medical services councils and hold planning meetings with cities, towns, and villages. Plans must review current services in each area and explain how to add or improve service where needed. Local governments must identify service providers, how services will be organized, and who will pay the costs. Plans must also estimate costs for service above current levels. Options include municipal services, shared municipal services, nonprofit or for-profit contracts, special districts, and regional agreements. The law takes effect immediately, and counties must complete plans within six months of that effective date. Plans go to the state Department of Health and State Emergency Medical Services Council for review and comment. The law requires planning but does not guarantee expanded service or set a funding amount.